The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) has confirmed the deaths of 15 people—among them 11 children aged between 2 and 14—in a devastating boat accident on Volta Lake near Kete Krachi on Saturday, October 11.
In a statement posted on its official Facebook page on Sunday, October 12, the Authority revealed that the boat had been severely overloaded when it capsized during a routine crossing. Four adults were also among the deceased, while four passengers survived the accident.
Describing the incident as “heartbreaking,” the GMA expressed its “deepest and most heartfelt condolences” to the affected families and the entire Kete Krachi community.
In response to the tragedy, the GMA announced immediate steps to improve safety and prevent similar incidents:
- A comprehensive investigation involving maritime inspectors and the Navy Task Force to determine the exact cause of the accident and hold those responsible accountable.
- The creation of a high-level Casualty Investigations Committee in partnership with the Ministry of Transport to recommend urgent safety and policy reforms.
- Increased enforcement operations along the Volta Lake to crack down on overloaded boats and prosecute operators who violate safety regulations.
The Authority also called on the public to remain alert and avoid boarding boats that appear overloaded or lack essential safety equipment like life jackets.
“Your refusal could save a life—especially a child’s,” the statement emphasized.
The GMA reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening water transport safety across Ghana’s inland waterways.
