Accra, 13 October 2025 — The Importers & Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) mourns the loss of lives in the recent boat accident on the Volta Lake near Kete Krachi. In a formal statement, IEAG has called for a full-scale, transparent, and independent investigation to determine how regulatory failures, oversight lapses, and negligence may have contributed to this devastating tragedy. MyJoyOnline
Tragedy Hits Home
The accident claimed 15 lives, including 11 children between ages two and fourteen. IEAG expressed profound sorrow and extended condolences to the families and communities affected, describing the incident as an “avoidable tragedy.” MyJoyOnline
While commending the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) for its prompt response, IEAG’s statement did not shy away from tough questions:
“Reports of overloading raise serious concerns about regulatory oversight by the very agencies mandated to protect lives on our water bodies.” MyJoyOnline
The Association insists that accountability must extend beyond boat operators to include relevant officials in GMA, local assemblies, and other institutions whose failure to enforce safety standards may have played a role. MyJoyOnline
A Crisis of Safety & Livelihoods
This accident is not a lone event. IEAG pointed to similar incidents in Ada and Dambai recently, warning of a growing pattern of safety breaches in Ghana’s waterways. Such tragedies not only cost lives, but undermine trade, commerce, and tourism along critical waterborne corridors. MyJoyOnline
Immediate Reforms IEAG Demands
IEAG has laid out urgent reforms it expects to accompany a credible investigation:
Routine inspections and strict capacity enforcement on all passenger vessels
Mandatory life jackets and safety equipment for every passenger
Licensing and training protocols for boat operators
Stronger sanctions for regulatory breaches
Public publication of investigation findings to restore trust
“The safety of every Ghanaian, whether by land or water, must be treated as a matter of national priority,” IEAG declared.
