The Central Regional Director of the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), Kwesi Dawood, has called on Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to approve budgets submitted by NADMO Directors in their respective districts. This, he said, would help prevent disasters before they occur.
Mr. Dawood made this call during the inauguration of the District Disaster Management Committee at the Ekumfi District Assembly, Essakyir.
He explained that most assemblies often refuse to approve NADMO budgets, citing lack of funds, which results in higher costs when disasters eventually strike. He stressed that the cost of prevention is far less than the cost of managing disasters after they occur.
The NADMO Regional Director highlighted the major challenges facing NADMO in coastal areas, particularly illegal sand winning, which contributes to coastal erosion.
He noted that the government’s ongoing sea defense projects are part of efforts to address such threats and protect coastal communities.
The Ekumfi District NADMO Director, Nana Okanta Obise IV, assured that the committee will work effectively to ensure the smooth operation of NADMO activities within the district.
He appealed to the District Assembly to provide financial and logistical support to enhance their operations. He also called on individuals, corporate bodies, and all financially capable persons in society to support NADMO’s work to safeguard lives and properties.
Nana Okanta Obise IV issued a strong warning to encroachers and individuals who build on waterlogged or unauthorized lands, cautioning that such offenders will face legal action, as their activities pose risks to vulnerable residents.