The Savannah Regional Director of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Mahama Zakaria, has been adjudged the Best Regional Director among all sixteen regional directors at the organisation’s end-of-year get-together held in Accra.
The award recognises Mr. Zakaria’s exceptional leadership, particularly his role in leading the regional response during the Birifor–Gonja conflict at Gbeneyiri in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District and parts of the Bole District of the Savannah Region. The conflict, which erupted over land ownership and related tensions between the two communities, led to the displacement of families, destruction of property, and heightened humanitarian needs.
Under Mr. Zakaria’s leadership, NADMO’s response helped minimise the humanitarian impact of the violence. His team swiftly coordinated relief efforts, ensured the timely distribution of food and non-food items to affected persons, and worked closely with security agencies and local authorities to stabilise the situation. Victims were also encouraged and supported to return safely to their homes as calm was gradually restored.
Presenting the award, the Director-General of NADMO, Major Dr. Joseph Bikanyi Kuyon (Rtd.), commended Mr. Zakaria for his calm, decisive and people-centred leadership during one of the most delicate security and humanitarian situations in the region.
In his acceptance speech, Mr. Zakaria expressed gratitude for the honour, describing it as a recognition of teamwork rather than individual effort.
“This award belongs to the entire Savannah Regional NADMO team. Their dedication, sacrifice and commitment made it possible for us to respond effectively, especially during the Gbeneyiri conflict,” he said.
He also thanked the Director-General and the management of NADMO for the confidence reposed in him.
“I am deeply grateful to the Director-General, Major Dr. Joseph Bikanyi Kuyon (Rtd.), and the management of NADMO for this honour and for the continuous support that enables us to deliver on our mandate,” Mr. Zakaria noted.
Mr. Zakaria reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the organisation in line with the reset agenda of President John Dramani Mahama’s government, pledging to work harder to make NADMO more proactive and responsive.
“This recognition only strengthens my resolve to work harder to ensure that NADMO grows stronger, more efficient and more responsive to disaster situations, in line with the reset agenda of His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama,” he added.
Since assuming office, Mr. Zakaria has led efforts to improve disaster preparedness, enhance coordination during emergencies and intensify public education on disaster risk reduction across the Savannah Region. His recognition has been widely welcomed by stakeholders as a boost to morale and a testament to the importance of strong leadership in disaster management.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
