The UFFFS is a system that utilises data from satellites, weather radar and other sources to forecast flash floods in urban areas. It was implemented in three-pilot cities, including Tamale in the Northern Region.

Experts in flood control from meteorological agencies of the six countries VRB – Ghana, Togo, Benin, Burkina Faso, Mali and Cote d'Ivoire, who are attending a three-day workshop in Accra, will share experiences from their national and regional perspectives.

It will also enable them to work together to monitor and forecast on hydro-meteorological events and warning services.

Dr Asuman underscored the need for strategic investment and sustainable management of resources in the VRB to ensure the building of resilience to floods, other losses and damages associated with climate change.

Outcomes

The VFDM Project Manager, Ramesh Tripathi, said one of the main outcomes of the project was the development of flood and drought early warning system for the entire Volta Basin region.

“This early warning system is to be used in terms of dissemination of warning bulletins to various stakeholders, including population, disaster management, power, transport, agriculture sectors and to improve livelihoods,” he said.

Mr Tripathi added that the project would provide timely warning messages at least six or 12 hours in advance to help save lives and property.