Pwalugu Multi-purpose dam may stall due to lack of funds- World Bank


The World Bank has expressed fear that the proposed construction of the Pwalugu Multi-Purpose hydro-electric dam may stall due lack of funds. 

The project estimated to cost 800 million dollars has over the years delayed as funds needed for the execution of the project is not adequately sourced. 

Presently, the project is undergoing its final technical feasibility studies with the view to reducing the environmental and social impact. 

The study will further advance the drawing up of a comprehensive resettlement action plan for persons and property that might be affected as a result of the project. 

At a stakeholder meeting held in Bolgatanga, the World Bank representative, Mahwash Wasig said looking at the current project design and its prospects, it has become crucial for the World Bank to seek funding from other interested donors since the government cannot fully bear the cost. 

GBC's Isaac Asare reports that he multi-million dollar project targeted at irrigation has undergone series of environmental and social impact assessments to identify potential negative effects on affected communities and the environment in general. 

The impact assessment undertaken by the VRA and NEDCO, is in accordance with the country’s legislation and tender requirements stipulated in the environmental assessment regulations of 1999. 

The regulations clearly defines the relevant stages and actions desired for the adoption and development of mitigation enhancement measures. 

The project will be based on building a dam over the White Volta River will have the capacity to irrigate over 20,000 hectares of land while generating between 18-22 megawatts of electric power to sustain the production of the northern electricity grid. 

In the face of the project, large hectares of land will be inundated with a possible displacement of over 4,000 people in the project affected areas. 

To this effect, designs for the project is being re-considered to address the cost implication and to ensure its viability when completed. 

The engagement session with the World Bank team and its development partners including SADA, was intended to explore ways to securing funds towards the successfully execution of the project. 

Ms. Mahwash Wasig is a Senior Water Resource Specialist at the World Bank. 

In his submission, the Upper East Regional Minister, Rockson Bukari underscored the importance of the project adding that government was committed to pursuing all developmental projects that are deemed feasible to bring about total development. 

For his part, the Northern Regional Minister, Salifu Saeed, said energy remains one of the key priorities of government and that efforts will be made to engage chiefs and other opinion leaders to support government in bringing the project into fruition. 

During an open forum, a senior lecturer and a member of the SADA board, Professor David Miller proposed to the World Bank to consider providing other social services such as schools, hospitals, market centres and other amenities to support the project as it will help address the inconveniences that may occur. 

GBC