Ghana's rainy seasons — April to July in the south, August to October in the north — bring more than relief from the heat. For business owners, they bring real risks: floods, leaking roofs, power cuts, and disrupted supply chains. Here are five practical steps to take now.
Markets near rivers, low-lying areas in Accra (Odawna, Darkuman, Lapaz), and roadside shops in poorly drained areas are most vulnerable. Talk to neighbours and bookmark the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) for seasonal forecasts and heavy rain warnings.
Move high-value stock to upper shelves or elevated platforms. Use waterproof bags or crates for electronics, documents, and fabric. Keep a photo inventory of what you have so you can document losses accurately.
Check your roof for loose sheets or gaps. Clear gutters and drains. Address water entry points with sandbags or drainage. Check electrical connections — water and exposed wiring are a dangerous combination.
Know who to call (NADMO, fire service, family, landlord), where to move your most valuable items, and where your important documents are stored. Having a plan means you react faster and lose less.
If you're a Fido customer with a qualifying loan, you may already have free Climate Disaster Insurance active on your account — covering floods, fires, windstorms, earthquakes, and drought at no extra cost. Open the Fido app and check for the insurance badge on your profile.
The best time to prepare is before it happens.