The ongoing national exercise forms part of the organisation’s drive to reactivate the DVGs, which were inactive for several years until their recent reactivation.

The session brought together Regional and District Directors of NADMO, disaster coordinators and key stakeholders, with a strong focus on strengthening community-based disaster response.

In his opening remarks, the Deputy Director General for Livelihood Support and Community Empowerment, Hon. Albert Alalzuuga Akuka, emphasized that the initiative is not just a program, but a national movement to rebuild local resilience and rekindle the spirit of volunteerism.

This movement places NADMO in every home, school, and community, empowering citizens to lead in disaster preparedness and response.

He said the reactivation plan includes three key volunteer structures: Community-Based Groups, Institutional Volunteer Clubs (in schools and religious institutions), and Agency and Civil Society Volunteers.

The Oti Regional Minister, Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong, emphasized the importance of having a well-trained and dedicated volunteer force to mitigate the effects of disasters.

“Disasters can strike at any moment. We must have a well-prepared and dedicated team of volunteers who can respond effectively,” he said.

Hon. Gyapong outlined three key goals of the reactivation effort: enhancing disaster preparedness and response capabilities, fostering community resilience and sustainability, and providing swift support to affected communities.

He commended NADMO’s leadership and encouraged all stakeholders to remain committed to the success of the volunteer reactivation initiative.

The Volta Regional Minister, Hon. James Gunu, also noted that the region has experienced several disasters in recent years, including rainstorms and tidal waves.

He said, “By the grace of God, the President has recently cut the sod for the construction of a sea defence project in Ketu South, which will bring permanent solutions to these perennial problems.”

He also expressed his gratitude to NADMO, stating, “They have always been with us since the disaster”.

The Minister also urged District and Assembly leaders to take issues of disaster management and sensitization seriously, emphasizing the role of local leadership in building a resilient region.