Former Member of Parliament for Anyaa-Sowutuom, Dr Dickson Adomako Kissi, has urged the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) to shift its focus from the distribution of relief items to the prevention of disasters, arguing that Ghana’s disaster response system must become more proactive.
His comments follow the recent heavy rains that caused widespread flooding across parts of the Greater Accra Region, resulting in loss of lives, displacement of residents, and the submerging of homes and businesses, as well as a fire outbreak in the Odawna area.
Speaking on Channel One TV, on Tuesday, June 30, Dr Adomako Kissi said NADMO remains under-resourced and has not been adequately equipped to effectively fulfil its mandate, adding that successive governments have failed to provide the needed support.
“NADMO’s equipment levels are low, and it’s not an NDC government thing. Over the years, NADMO has not been well equipped. The Ghanaian NADMO, which is a disaster management authority, has largely been focused on giving out rice and mattresses, and I really think that the focus needs to change,” he said.
He stressed that disaster prevention should be given equal, if not greater, attention than emergency response, calling for increased investment in technical expertise and flood mitigation strategies.
“Prevention is also part of their mandate. They need appropriate engineers, not party faithfuls, who can work with the assemblies to identify high-risk flood areas and implement preventive measures before disasters occur,” he stated.
Dr Adomako Kissi also raised concerns about worsening traffic congestion caused by flooding, particularly for commuters into Accra, and called on authorities to engage companies whose operations may be obstructing waterways or contributing to flood risks.
He further appealed to Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson to review budgetary allocations and reimbursements to NADMO to enable the agency to invest more in long-term flood prevention.
His remarks come as authorities continue to assess the impact of the recent floods, which have left several communities inundated, displaced residents, and heightened concerns about Ghana’s preparedness for extreme weather events.
ALSO READ:
Asutifi North MP, NHIA step up fight against illegal charges on…
Richard Ahiagbah defends NPP’s flood record, questions slowdown of inherited projects
