Farmers and communities along the White Volta River are worried as the annual spillage of the Bagre and Kompienga Dams in Burkina Faso begins today, August 25. The release was moved forward by two days, giving little time for preparation. Many farmers say they are still harvesting crops like maize and millet, which could now be washed away.
The Water Resources Commission explained that the Bagre Dam is already 90% full, while the Kompienga Dam is also nearing its limit. In past years, such spillages have caused serious flooding in the Upper East and North East Regions of Ghana. Farms, livestock, and homes have been destroyed, leaving families displaced and struggling with food insecurity.
Officials from NADMO and farmer groups are urging communities to move to higher ground. They are also warning farmers to avoid planting too close to the riverbanks in the future. While efforts are being made to reduce losses, residents say the sudden change in date has created fear and uncertainty.
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