A canoe trip by five children across the Ochi River at Assin Ochiso in the Central Region ended in heartbreak on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, when 12-year-old Kojo Adu, affectionately called Joe, drowned while rescuing his companions.
The group, made up of three siblings, a friend, and a nine-year-old canoe paddler from the nearby Amoanda community, had set out in search of avocados to sell. Midway through the crossing, the canoe became unstable under their combined weight.
As panic set in, Kojo sprang into action, helping three children—including the paddler—swim to shore. His heroic effort cost him his life.
He was confirmed dead at the Assin Ochiso health facility. The surviving children, aged six to nine, are receiving treatment at a hospital.
Locals rushed to the scene after hearing the children’s cries and managed to rescue the others. Kojo’s body was later pulled from the water.
Grieving parents, Ama Ninaa and Kwabena Asaane, joined residents in calling on authorities, including MPs Rev. John Ntim Fordjour and Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, to construct a footbridge over the river. They say the absence of a safe crossing is endangering lives—especially children.
