Wa, Upper West Region – March 16, 2026.
In a significant gathering at Dellagio Hotel, the Honourable Regional Minister, Charles Lwanga Puozuing Esq., addressed a sensitization workshop focused on the essential integration of persons with disabilities into disaster risk management strategies. Organized by the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and the National Council on Persons with Disability, the event highlighted the pressing need for inclusive policies that guarantee the safety and dignity of all individuals during times of crisis.
Minister Puozuing underlined a universal truth: A resilient society is defined by its commitment to protect its most vulnerable members. In this regard, he emphasized that disasters affect everyone, but their consequences can disproportionately impact persons with disabilities unless deliberate actions are taken to include them in planning, preparedness, response, and recovery efforts.
The Minister affirmed the government’s unwavering dedication to enhancing disaster preparedness and response mechanisms nationwide. He urged NADMO to adopt a proactive approach to disaster management, moving beyond reactive responses to establish a comprehensive disaster preparedness roadmap for the Upper West Region. Such a roadmap will enable municipalities to accurately assess their vulnerabilities and improve their capacity for recovery and resilience.
Furthermore, the workshop served as a clarion call for collaboration among various stakeholders, including traditional authorities, security agencies, health institutions, and community leaders. The Minister insisted that persons with disabilities should not merely be passive beneficiaries but active contributors in shaping disaster management strategies, leveraging their unique insights to design safer and more effective systems.
As the workshop concluded, Minister Puozuing encouraged participants to convert the knowledge gained into actionable steps within their communities. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Regional Coordinating Council towards fostering an environment where no one is left behind during crises, advocating strong partnerships and inclusive policies.
This workshop represents not just an event but a pivotal moment for the Upper West Region, inspiring a collective commitment to build a compassionate, resilient, and safe community for all.
