Gabriel Agambila, a prominent opinion leader in the diaspora, has urgently appealed to regional and national leaders to address the annual flooding caused by the Bagre Dam in Burkina Faso.

Agambila is calling for immediate action from the Ministry of Agriculture and the President to prevent the devastating impact of sudden water releases downstream.

In his recent statement, Agambila emphasized the need to gradually open the Bagre Dam as water levels rise in northern Burkina Faso. This measure, he argues, would help mitigate the yearly flooding that occurs when water is released from the dam, which often results in significant damage to communities downstream.

"The current President of Burkina Faso has a strong interest in agriculture and is familiar with the terrain around Bolgatanga. Having visited Bolgatanga several times before assuming office, he is well aware of our plight," Agambila stated. He suggested that the President’s familiarity with the region would enable him to understand and address the issue more effectively.

Agambila also proposed that regional leaders, including chiefs from Nangodi, Sakote, and Tili, along with the regional minister, should visit Burkina Faso to discuss the situation directly with the relevant authorities. He recommended that this trip be facilitated by the Ghanaian presidency to ensure it occurs as soon as possible, thereby preventing the need for costly relocations and resettlements.

"The floods begin in the north and impact the Upper East region the most before moving south. We must address this issue promptly to protect those who are first affected—farmers and livestock owners," Agambila urged.

As members of the diaspora, Agambila and his colleagues are unable to make the trip themselves but plan to communicate their concerns to the Burkinabe consulate to expedite the matter.

Agambila’s appeal underscores the pressing need for cross-border cooperation to address the environmental and economic challenges posed by the Bagre Dam’s operation.

BB