The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) in the Bono Region of Ghana recently conducted a comprehensive orientation program for newly appointed District and Municipal Coordinators and officers. This initiative aimed to equip these officials with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively execute their disaster management responsibilities within their respective jurisdictions. The orientation covered a wide range of topics, including NADMO’s core mandate, operational procedures, hazard prevention, disaster response, recovery measures, community collaboration, public education, and psychological first aid. This thorough training underscored NADMO’s commitment to proactive disaster management and community resilience.
The orientation began with a formal welcome and induction ceremony led by Mrs. Fati Kine-Lam, the Bono Regional NADMO Director. She provided the new officers with a detailed overview of NADMO’s mandate and scope, emphasizing their critical role in mitigating the impact of disasters within their districts. The training sessions that followed focused on equipping the officers with practical skills and knowledge necessary for effective disaster management. This included familiarization with standard operating procedures, individual roles and responsibilities, and strategies for preventing disasters. The comprehensive nature of the orientation highlighted NADMO’s dedication to building a well-prepared and responsive disaster management team.
A significant portion of the orientation addressed current events affecting the country, such as flooding and sanitation challenges, which fall under NADMO’s purview. The coordinators and officers engaged in discussions about effective approaches to tackle these issues and enhance public safety. This included exploring hazard prevention programs, disaster response protocols, recovery measures, and collaborative initiatives with local communities. Furthermore, the training emphasized the importance of public education, particularly in disaster-prone areas, to raise awareness and promote preparedness among residents. The inclusion of these topics underscored NADMO’s commitment to addressing both immediate and long-term disaster management needs.
Recognizing the psychological impact of disasters, Mr. Joseph Yere, the Bono Regional mental health coordinator, led a session on psychological first aid. He highlighted the importance of providing emotional support and comfort to disaster victims in the aftermath of traumatic events. Mr. Yere encouraged the NADMO officers to be present at disaster scenes, offering solace and reassurance to those affected. He emphasized the critical role of NADMO officers in mediating and consoling victims, providing a sense of stability and hope during challenging times. This focus on psychological well-being demonstrated NADMO’s recognition of the holistic needs of disaster-affected communities.
Mr. Yere also addressed the practical constraints faced by NADMO, acknowledging that the organization may not always have the resources to fulfill all recovery needs. He advised the district coordinators against making promises to disaster victims that NADMO cannot deliver, emphasizing the importance of managing expectations and providing realistic support. This pragmatic approach underscored the need for responsible resource allocation and transparent communication with affected communities.
The newly appointed NADMO officers expressed their gratitude for the comprehensive orientation program and appealed for logistical support to enhance their effectiveness. They requested essential equipment such as computers, office space, furniture, live jackets, vehicles, and motorbikes. These resources, they argued, would significantly improve their ability to carry out their duties, respond promptly to incidents, and provide timely assistance to disaster-affected communities. Their appeal highlighted the practical challenges faced by NADMO and the need for adequate resources to ensure effective disaster management.
