International Communities have set targets for global sustainable development and poverty reduction under the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Progress in reducing vulnerabilities to disasters is essential for achieving the MDGs. To achieve the Agenda 21, the Johannesburg Plan of Action of implementation of the World Summit on Sustainable development (WSSD) called for the mainstreaming of disaster risk management into development. With specific reference to Africa, the Plan of Action urges actions at all levels to assist Africa to deal effectively with disasters induced by natural hazards and conflicts – including the environmental and humanitarian impacts within the framework of NEPAD.
The Ghana context
Disasters have over the years been a major global concern in which Ghana is no exception. These increasing natural and man made calamities imposing threats, sufferings and lost of lives to humanity, and negative social, economic and environmental consequences are critical elements to the achievement of sustainable development. There have been numerous devastating earthquakes and floods in many parts of the world especially from 1999 to 2005 and, in Ghana in particular the recent floods which struck the three Northern regions and parts of the Western region are reminders of one of the most pressing challenges of our times. These situations often disrupt the daily lives of the affected population, and as a result, basic necessities such as food, shelter, clothing and medical care are required to stabilize the situation.
Disaster management in Ghana
The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) was established by ACT 517 of 1996 with the responsibility to manage disasters and similar emergencies in the country. Its mandate includes the drawing of plans to prevent disasters or mitigate their effects on residents in Ghana, to coordinate activities before and during emergencies as well as ensuring post disaster rehabilitation, reconstruction and resettlement. The objectives of the National Disaster Management Plan are as follows:
- To strengthen the institutional capacity of NADMO and its stakeholders
- To pursue the vision and goals of disaster management
- To create a cohesive and well coordinated programming framework incorporating Government agencies and departments, NGOs and private sector
- To develop the capacity of communities on prevention, preparedness, response and recovery from disasters
The major incidence of disasters in Ghana is from floods, epidemics, fire, pests and diseases and conflicts. In recent times these disasters have caused major disruptions in the economic and social development of the country due to the inability to cope effectively with natural hazards created by development process. The main sources of vulnerability include poverty and development pressures (including low economic growth, rising population pressures and unplanned urbanization). Other factors include: fragile and degraded environments, epidemic diseases (especially malaria and HIV/AIDS), and governance issues. These concerns are development challenges but they also configure disaster profiles
Project Objectives
In collaboration with BCPR, UNDP will support NADMO to carry out capacity assessment of NADMO. The programme will also support capacity building of NADMO and disaster-related institutions by setting up a National platform for disaster risk reduction, establishment of a functioning information management system at district level to ensure coordinated disaster relief as well as training of NADMO staff to enhance their operational effectiveness.
List Of Other Environment And Energy Projects
Institutional Strengthening Phase VII
Terminal Phase-out Management Project
Sustainable Land Management Programme (SLaM)
Community Water Initiative
Enabling Activities for the preparation of Ghanas 2nd National Communication to the UNFCCC
Capacity Building for PCB Elimination in Ghana
Promoting Sustainable Use of Natural Resources and Good Environmental Management in Ghana
Enhancing Access to Sustainable Energy Services for the Poor in Ghana
Application of SEA for Development of District Level Plans
Improving Supply Chain for LPG Access in Tamale
Improving Access to Sustainable Energy Services
National Action Programme to Mainstream Climate Change into Ghanas Development
Ghana
