In a collaborative effort to strengthen preparedness against floods, the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Volta River Authority (VRA) jointly organized a tabletop simulation exercise in North Tongu. The exercise codenamed Nor Nudzor 2024, aimed to assess the district’s readiness for flood-related emergencies.

The event brought together a wide array of key stakeholders, including religious, traditional, and political leaders, as well as assembly members. These individuals form the newly constituted District Disaster Management Committee, a group tasked with disseminating essential information to the wider community in the event of a disaster.

Speaking to the media, Sedzi Sadzi Amedonu, Deputy Coordinator of NADMO, explained that the devastating floods of the previous year triggered the event.

He emphasized that the primary goal of the exercise was to ensure that the entire district was equipped to respond to flood hazards of all kinds.

Amedonu also highlighted a critical observation. He said while the VRA had an emergency preparedness plan in place, none of the districts downstream of the Akosombo Dam had a contingency plan. He underscored that informed communities are better equipped to respond effectively in the event of a flood, and this exercise was an essential step in ensuring that residents are well-prepared.

The Mankralo of the Meƒe Traditional Area, Torgbui Korsi Nego VI, praised the exercise, noting its importance for the community.

He remarked that last year’s floods could have been less challenging if such preparedness initiatives had been undertaken earlier. He further advised that the plan be kept intact to ensure continued readiness.

Hon. Divine Osborne Fenu, District Chief Executive and chairman of the District Disaster Management Committee emphasized the importance of continuously testing the plan. He assured that regular evaluations would be conducted to ensure the district remains fully prepared for any future disasters.

With Nor Nudzor 2024, the North Tongu district has taken a crucial step toward safeguarding lives and property against flood risks, reinforcing the community's resilience and preparedness.