Former Member of Parliament for Anyaa-Sowutuom, Dr. Dickson Adomako Kissi, has called on government to strengthen the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) by equipping it to focus more on disaster prevention rather than primarily responding to emergencies with relief items.
His call follows the recent heavy rains that caused widespread flooding across parts of the Greater Accra Region, leading to deaths, displacement, destruction of property and a fire outbreak in the Odawna area.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily, Dr. Adomako Kissi argued that Ghana’s disaster management strategy should prioritise preventing disasters before they occur instead of concentrating mainly on post-disaster interventions.
Shift from Relief to Prevention
According to the former legislator, NADMO’s mandate extends beyond distributing food, mattresses and other relief supplies to victims of disasters.
He said the organisation should be adequately resourced to undertake preventive activities such as dredging drains, identifying flood-prone communities and strengthening disaster preparedness across the country.
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He stressed that investing in prevention would significantly reduce the impact of floods and other natural disasters on lives and property.
More Resources Needed
Dr. Adomako Kissi acknowledged the commitment of NADMO personnel during rescue operations but maintained that the institution lacks the equipment and logistics needed to effectively carry out its broader responsibilities.
He noted that inadequate investment in the organisation has limited its capacity over the years, adding that the challenge predates the current administration.
According to him, improving NADMO’s operational capacity should become a national priority.
Call for Technical Expertise
The former MP also advocated the recruitment of qualified engineers and other technical professionals to strengthen the organisation’s disaster prevention efforts.
He said such experts should work closely with Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies to identify flood-prone areas, assess risks and recommend practical engineering solutions.
According to him, technical competence should take precedence in disaster management planning and implementation.
Lessons from Recent Floods
Dr. Adomako Kissi said the recent flooding in Greater Accra should serve as a wake-up call for authorities to invest more in preventive disaster management.
He argued that proactive planning and improved infrastructure would save lives, minimise property damage and reduce the financial burden associated with emergency response.
Strengthening Ghana’s Disaster Response
The former legislator urged government to provide NADMO with modern equipment, specialised personnel and the resources required to effectively deliver on its mandate.
He expressed confidence that a stronger focus on prevention would improve Ghana’s resilience to floods and other disasters while protecting vulnerable communities across the country.
According to him, disaster management should be centred on reducing risks before emergencies occur rather than relying mainly on relief efforts after lives and property have already been affected.
