President commiserates with US government

President John Dramani Mahama has commiserated with the US government and the families of victims of the devastating flood in Central Texas in the US last Friday, which killed 108 people, including more than 30 children.

President Mahama, in a message yesterday addressed to the US President Donald Trump, offered his condolences to the President and the American people for the tragic incident.

“On behalf of the government and people of Ghana, and in my own name, I extend our heartfelt condolences to Your Excellency, the government and the people of the United States of America, especially the bereaved families and all those affected by this tragic calamity,” he said.

Incident

President Mahama added that he was particularly saddened by the fact that many persons remained missing and continued to follow with great concern the widespread destruction inflicted upon lives and livelihoods.

The flooding, according to reports, has claimed at least 108 lives, including over 30 children in Central Texas, sweeping across Kerr County in the southern part of the US. Meanwhile, more than 850 others have been rescued.

More than 400 first responders from over 20 agencies in the US rescue teams were reported to be undertaking search and rescue operations, with boats in the heavily flooded Kerr County, according to US authorities.

The devastating event is considered one of the saddest in the history of the country, with many lives, property and infrastructure destroyed in the areas heavily affected by the rushing, raging water.

Apart from the Kerr County, which was the hardest hit, the Travis, Kendall, Burnet, Williamson and Tom Green counties were also affected.

Commendation

President Mahama also commended the US authorities for their leadership and efforts to mitigate the devastating impact of the flooding.

“In the face of such adversity, we commend your resolute leadership and the tireless efforts of emergency personnel, local authorities and volunteers who are working under challenging circumstances to rescue, relieve and restore affected communities,” the message said.

President Mahama also extended Ghana’s full solidarity to the government and people of the US in the tragic moment of grief and national mourning.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Please accept, Mr President [Donald Trump], the assurances of my highest consideration,” the President added.