Central Region NADMO moves to proactive disaster management after 4-day workshop

The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) in the Central Region has held a four-day advanced leadership and capacity-building workshop for Metropolitan, Municipal and District Directors, Deputy Directors, Administrators and Disaster Report Writers to strengthen institutional capacity and improve disaster management and resilience.

The workshop, held from Tuesday, November 3 to Friday, November 6, 2026, at the SGS Auditorium of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), brought together nearly 250 participants and facilitators under the theme: “Resetting NADMO for Improved Performance in Disaster Resilience.”

The programme was aimed at enhancing leadership, improving professional competencies and equipping personnel with the knowledge and skills required to strengthen disaster prevention, preparedness, response and recovery.

The Deputy NADMO Regional Director in charge of Public Relations, Samuel Essel, said the workshop was organised to build the capacity of personnel and reposition the organisation towards a more proactive approach to disaster management.

He explained that NADMO was moving away from waiting for disasters to occur before acting, stressing the need for early interventions to prevent and reduce their impact.

Mr. Essel noted that the training had also improved participants’ skills in report writing, communication and information dissemination, which he said would enhance the organisation’s operations and public image.

He further encouraged institutions and members of the public who needed assistance or clarification on NADMO’s operations to contact the Central Regional Office at the Regional Coordinating Council.

Meanwhile, one of the facilitators, Dr. Suleman Dauda, a lecturer at the Department of Geography and Regional Planning, University of Cape Coast, called for NADMO to be given a leading role in the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

He described the environmental destruction caused by illegal mining as a major disaster, warning that the use of mercury and other harmful chemicals could expose communities to long-term health and environmental risks, including effects on children born in affected areas.

Dr. Dauda maintained that NADMO’s existing structures, trained personnel and presence at the community level position the organisation to support efforts to tackle illegal mining and restore degraded lands.

He also pointed to the organisation’s community volunteer structures as an advantage in mobilising local people for environmental restoration, but stressed that adequate logistics, including drones, helicopters and other operational equipment, would be necessary to strengthen its effectiveness.

On collaboration between NADMO and the security services, the Central North Regional Commander of the Ghana Police Service, DCOP Abraham Acquaye, emphasised the importance of joint efforts in ensuring public safety and effective disaster management.

He explained that the Police Service works closely with NADMO and other emergency response agencies at the various stages of disaster management, including prevention, preparedness, response and recovery.

DCOP Acquaye noted that while NADMO coordinates disaster management activities, the Police Service plays a crucial role in maintaining law and order and protecting lives and property during emergencies.

He added that the nature of a disaster and the expertise required determine which institution takes the lead, while the others provide the necessary support.

The four-day workshop provided a platform for participants and facilitators to exchange knowledge, reflect on lessons learnt and strengthen professional relationships towards improving disaster management and resilience in the Central Region.