Editorial
Volta lake tragedy: Let’s not ignore safety precautions
● Travellers on the Volta Lake should be provide enouugh life jackets
Dear Editor,
Five people including two females and three children have reportedly lost their lives when a boat conveying passengers to a funeral from Azizanya to Azizakpe in the Ada East District of the Greater Accra Region, capsised recently on the Volta Lake.
The boat, which was supposed to carry about 40 to 50 passengers, according to news reports, was overloaded with almost 100 passengers without life jackets.
This tragedy, I believe, could have been avoided if safety precautions were taken seriously. The boats have a required number of passengers to carry and that should not have been exceeded under any circumstance.
Although the loss is regrettable, I wonder if some of these unfortunate incidents must occur before we do or take the necessary actions.
Life jackets are designed to keep passengers from drowning in case of accidents and I believe no boat or canoe should be made to transport humans without this protective gear on board.
It is commendable that a rescue team promptly intervened to save lives and we must encourage more basic training in cardiopulmonary restitution (CPR) which is a useful lifesaving technique during emergencies.
This is not the first time we have recorded a boat disaster. In January this year, eight school children out of 220 others drowned on the lake while crossing with a canoe from Atigagome to Wayokope District Assembly Primary School.
Considering the recurring nature of these accidents, I plead with the authorities to provide more boats and canoes for residents in these catchment areas. They should also be supplied with adequate life jackets and other protective gears to save lives when the unfortunate happens.
Evelyn Naadu Borquaye,
Nungua, Accra.
Editorial
Concern over mentally ill persons roaming Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange
Dear Sir
I write to express my concern over the growing number of mentally ill individuals roaming the Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange in Accra.
This area, a vital transportation hub and commercial centre, has increasingly become home to several persons visibly suffering from mental health issues, often without adequate care or supervision.
This situation poses risks both to the affected individuals and the general public. Some of these individuals are exposed to traffic hazards, unsanitary conditions, and in some cases, hostile treatment from passersby.
There have also been reports of occasional erratic behaviour, which causes fear and discomfort among commuters and vendors.
Mental health is a public health issue, and these individuals deserve compassion, medical attention, and a safe environment.
I urge the Ministry of Health, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, and relevant NGOs to collaborate on a sustainable solution including mental health outreach programmes, rehabilitation, and safe housing.
Kwame Nkrumah Circle should be a symbol of progress, not a place where the vulnerable are left to struggle. Let us act with urgency and humanity.
From John Boateng
Kwame Nkrumah Circle
Editorial
Parents should encourage their wards writing BECE
Dear Editor,
AS the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) takes off across the country starting Wednesday, I write to encourage all candidates taking part in this important step in their academic journey.
Out of a total of 603,328 candidates taking the examination this year, 306,078 are females, whiles the rest 297,250 are males.
Over the years, the examination begins on Monday and ended on Friday but per the timetable, this year’s candidates started on Wednesday and will end next week.
The BECE is not just an exam, it is a milestone from one stage to another. It represents years of hardwork, dedication and the dreams of countless students who hope to continue their education and build a brighter future.
This is where the role of parents, teachers and society become beneficial. Let us offer not only academic support but emotional encouragement to them.
I also appeal to educational authorities to ensure fairness, proper supervision and transparency throughout the examination period.
The journey may be challenging, but with time, focus and discipline they can make it.
I wish to use this platform to wish all of them well.
Naa Koshie, Teshie
