Indiscipline hindering flood keep watch over efforts – NADMO – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

Ghana’s National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has issued a critical alert: persistent public indiscipline is severely undermining nationwide efforts to manage and prevent flooding, particularly in urban centers. In a recent statement delivered during World Soil Day celebrations at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research – Soil Research Institute (CSIR-SRI) in Kumasi, the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) NADMO Administrator, Jamal-Deen Ibrahim Seidu, emphasized that irresponsible waste disposal, illegal construction, and neglect of drainage regulations are the primary drivers of flood crises in the Ashanti Region. This comprehensive overview explores the root causes, governmental responses, and actionable strategies to strengthen flood management in Ghana, while integrating insights from experts and ongoing initiatives.

Key Points

Background

NADMO’s Role in Flood Management

Established to coordinate disaster preparedness, response, and recovery, NADMO works closely with local assemblies, such as the KMA, to implement flood control strategies. Its mandate includes risk assessment, public education, and coordination of emergency services during hydrometeorological disasters.

The Ashanti Region Context

The Ashanti Region, home to Kumasi, the country’s second-largest city, faces acute flooding risks due to rapid urbanization, inadequate planning, and climate change-induced heavy rainfall. Historical flood events have caused significant economic loss, displaced communities, and damaged infrastructure.

World Soil Day 2025 Event

During the World Soil Day celebration themed “Healthy Soil for Healthy Cities,” stakeholders including researchers, policymakers, and environmental groups convened. Discussions highlighted the interplay between soil health, urban planning, and effective flood prevention strategies. Participants underscored the need for integrated land-use policies to mitigate urban flooding.

Analysis

Impact of Public Indiscipline on Drainage Systems

Mr. Seidu explicitly linked flooding to citizen behavior: “People dump rubbish into gutters, block waterways, and build on waterlogged land. When rains come, water has nowhere to go.” Blocked drains reduce channel capacity, causing surface runoff to accumulate in residential areas, streets, and commercial hubs. This phenomenon is exacerbated during intense rainfall events, which are becoming more frequent due to climate change.

Illegal Construction and Encroachment

Illegal Construction and Encroachment

Unauthorized buildings on waterways, wetlands, and designated buffer zones disrupt natural floodplain dynamics. These structures not only impede water flow but also increase vulnerability during extreme weather. NADMO’s pending legislation aims to address this by authorizing the demolition of such edifices, a move requiring presidential assent.

Aging Drainage Infrastructure

Many urban drainage systems in Ghana were designed decades ago and are ill-equipped to handle current rainfall patterns or future climate projections. Clogged or undersized drains lead to overflow, backing up into homes and businesses. Revamping these systems is a priority for NADMO and local governments.

Success of Public Sensitization Campaigns

In 2025, the Ashanti Region recorded notably fewer flood incidents than previous years. Mr. Seidu attributes this progress to sustained public awareness efforts, including radio programs, school workshops, and community dialogues. These initiatives foster a culture of responsibility and compliance with environmental regulations.

Practical Advice

Actions for Citizens

• Avoid dumping waste into gutters, drains, or water bodies. Use designated collection points.
• Report illegal structures or encroachments to local NADMO offices or the KMA.
• Participate in community clean-up drives and drainage clearance activities.
• Support neighborhood watch programs that monitor construction compliance.

Recommendations for Government and Stakeholders

• Accelerate the passage and implementation of the new demolition legislation to enforce land-use rules.
• Invest in modern drainage infrastructure, including flood barriers and retention basins.
• Integrate climate resilience into urban planning and building codes.
• Expand public education campaigns using multiple platforms (social media, schools, local leaders).

Community-Based Solutions

Local initiatives such as volunteer clean-up squads, school environmental clubs, and partnerships with NGOs can amplify NADMO’s efforts. Community-led monitoring of drainage systems and rapid reporting of blockages create a proactive defense against flooding.

FAQ

Conclusion

Addressing Ghana’s urban flooding crisis requires a multi-faceted approach that combines robust institutional action, modern infrastructure, and a profound shift in public behavior. NADMO’s emphasis on legal empowerment, coupled with sustained community engagement, offers a pathway to resilience. By prioritizing effective flood management and fostering collective responsibility, Ghana can mitigate the human and economic toll of flooding, ensuring safer, more sustainable cities for future generations.