The Bono Regional Directorate of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) is intensifying public education on sanitation as the region prepares for the peak of the rainy season, warning that poor waste disposal practices continue to heighten flood risks.
Fati Kine Lam has called on residents to stop dumping plastic waste and other refuse into gutters, noting that blocked drainage systems remain a major trigger of flooding across several parts of the region.
She expressed concern that flooding is a recurring challenge in municipalities and districts including Sunyani, Dormaa Central, Jaman South, Sunyani West, Tain, Jaman North, and Banda, where improper waste management continues to worsen the situation.
Speaking in an interview in Sunyani, she urged communities to adopt regular clean-up exercises and ensure gutters are desilted to allow free flow of rainwater.
According to her, the onset of the rains makes it even more urgent for households and local authorities to maintain proper sanitation practices, warning that indiscriminate dumping could lead to avoidable disasters.
She also appealed to Municipal and District Assemblies to step up enforcement of sanitation by-laws and improve waste collection systems to support community efforts.
Mrs Lam stressed that NADMO’s role is primarily preventive rather than relief-based, explaining that the organisation focuses on disaster preparedness, risk reduction, and public sensitisation rather than only responding after emergencies occur.
She disclosed that NADMO has intensified education campaigns at both household and community levels to promote responsible waste disposal and environmental cleanliness.
However, she noted that logistical constraints remain a challenge, calling for additional support such as motorcycles and pickup vehicles to enhance field operations.
She added that NADMO is working closely with local assemblies and stakeholders to improve drainage infrastructure in flood-prone areas and reduce vulnerability to seasonal flooding.
The Regional Director further urged strict enforcement of sanitation regulations as part of broader efforts to protect lives and property during the rainy season.
