15 dead in Volta Lake boat tragedy near Kete Krachi
Fifteen people, including eleven children, have died in a devastating boat accident near Kete Krachi in the Oti Region. The incident occurred on Saturday, 11 October 2025, when an overloaded boat capsized while crossing a section of the Volta Lake.
According to the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA), the victims included children aged between two and fourteen, along with four adults. Four others survived the disaster.
In a statement, the GMA described the incident as heartbreaking and extended its condolences to the bereaved families and the Kete Krachi community.
The Authority has launched a series of urgent actions aimed at preventing future tragedies.
A specialised team made up of Maritime Inspectors and members of the Navy Task Force has been deployed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident. The GMA has pledged to hold all responsible parties accountable.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Transport, a Casualty Investigations Committee will be formed to assess current safety protocols and recommend immediate reforms to improve water transport safety across the country.
The Authority has also begun a lakeside enforcement operation targeting unsafe practices on Volta Lake. Boats found to be overloaded or operating without lifejackets and safety gear will be seized, and their operators prosecuted.
“The GMA remains resolute in its commitment to safer water transport,” the statement noted.
Residents and commuters along the Volta Lake have been urged to prioritise their safety and refuse to board any vessel that appears overloaded or lacks lifejackets.
“Your refusal could save a life, especially a child’s,” the Authority advised.
