There is a resurgence of black flies in communities along the Asukawkaw River Basin in the Nkwanta District of the Volta Region. The flies cause onchocerciasis or river blindness. The disease poses a very serious threat to the health of the people and lower their productivity.

Mr Johannes Kokobi, assembly member for the Brewaniase Electoral Area, made this known at a meeting of assembly members and heads of department in the Nkwanta District. Some of the affected communities are Salifu, Bontibor, Pusupu, Brewaniase, Abrewanko, Nkwanta, Labumu and Abubruwa.

He expressed concern about the plight of the people, who are experiencing severe skin diseases, which may eventually cripple economic activities in the area. Mr Samuel Blagodzi, the Nkwanta District Chief Executive, who confirmed the reported resurgence of the flies, called for urgent intervention from the appropriate authorities to address the problem to enable the people to carry out their economic endeavours.