Keta: The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) at Keta in the Volta Region has embarked on a familiarisation and collaboration tour to key institutions within the Municipality. The tour aimed to strengthen disaster risk reduction and build resilience among communities by fostering collaboration between stakeholders.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Wonder Setsoafia Deynu, the NADMO Director at Keta, highlighted that institutions such as the Ghana National Fire Service, the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), and the Keta Municipal Health Directorate, among others, were visited. 'These visits provided us the opportunity and platform to engage and discuss areas of mutual interest and explore ways that will strengthen partnerships for coordinating responses to emergencies,' he stated.
The primary objective of the tour was to foster collaboration among stakeholders to effectively reduce and manage disasters within the Keta Municipality. The visit also demonstrated the importance of collective efforts in preventing and mitigating various forms of disasters such as drowning, flooding, rainstorms, and windstorms, bush fires, coastal erosion, and pest, disease, and insect infestations.
Mr. Deynu explained that a fruitful discussion was held on the importance of collective efforts in disaster management. All parties further recognised that no single agency could tackle the challenges alone, and there was a unanimous agreement to work collaboratively in planning and implementing disaster prevention and response strategies. 'All the institutions have agreed on key areas of collaboration such as public education and awareness campaigns, seminars, and workshops, and stakeholder involvement,' he elaborated.
The collaborative efforts aim to ensure inclusive participation from all sectors, which include traditional leaders, religious bodies, schools, and local associations, in disaster management plans and execution to help affected communities. Public education and awareness campaigns are set to play a crucial role in disaster management. Joint action and efforts will enable the education of communities on disaster preparedness and safety practices to reduce the risk of disasters and promote a culture of safety.
Mr. Deynu further commended and appreciated the Ghana National Fire Service, NCCE, the Municipal Health Directorate, and other institutions for their warm reception and commitment to shared visions and responsibilities. The collaboration also marked a significant step toward building a safer and more disaster-resilient municipality, while the organisation remained committed to the principle of 'Stay Safe- Prevention Pays.'
Some heads of institutions visited expressed satisfaction with the familiarisation and collaboration tour, which was seen as just the beginning of a long-term partnership between NADMO Keta and key institutions. They are expected to continue working together, sharing expertise and resources to build a safer and more disaster-resilient area.
