By: Saidu Jalloh
As part of its yearly activities, the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) held end-of-year General Staff Meeting to celebrate the agency’s achievements and recognize its best-performing staff while setting the tone for continued excellence in 2025. The meeting, which brought together staff from various directorates and across the country, was marked by a special moment: the honoring of Sylvester Teh as NDMA’s Best Staff of the Year 2024.
During his keynote address, the Director General of the NDMA, Lit. Gen. (Rtd) Brima Sesay, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the staff for their hard work and dedication throughout 2024.
He further acknowledged their collective efforts in advancing the agency’s mission. He urged staff to remain steadfast and even more committed in 2025.
The DG stressed that the continued dedication of staff members is crucial to strengthening disaster management efforts across the country. “Let us build on the successes we’ve achieved this year and aim higher. Together, we can achieve even greater milestones as we strive to protect lives and communities,” he encouraged.
The DG concluded by commended Sylvester Teh for his exceptional performance and dedication to the agency’s work. He said: “Sylvester represents the spirit of resilience and commitment that defines the NDMA. His contributions this year have been exemplary. He is always willing and ready to be in the field and we are proud to celebrate him as our Best Staff of the Year.”
The Director General also recognized other staff members who received certificates of appreciation for their outstanding performance throughout the year and encouraged all employees to emulate such dedication.
NDMA’s Chief of Operations, Kai Banya, who served as Chairman of the meeting, also praised Teh’s work ethic, noting that his consistent performance and teamwork embody the core values of the NDMA.
As part of the meeting, various directorates presented on their accomplishments and plans for the future. Vamba A. Konneh, Information Officer, on behalf of the Directorate of Communications, emphasized the pivotal role of communication in disaster management. He highlighted how the directorate has strengthened public engagement through timely dissemination of critical information, awareness campaigns, and partnerships with local media.
“Our efforts to inform and educate the public have contributed to minimizing disaster impacts and enhancing community resilience,” Konneh noted.
NDMA’s Director of Finance, Morie Bassie Karteh, presented an overview of budget utilization and resource allocation for 2024. Karteh emphasized transparency and accountability as key priorities, stating that prudent financial management had enabled the NDMA to implement several disaster related interventions across the country despite limited resources.
Sinneh Mansaray, NDMA’s Director of Relief and Response, presented on the agency’s interventions in major incidents across the country. From responding to floods, fires, and windstorms to mitigating the effects of building collapses, Sinneh highlighted how swift coordination and timely interventions have saved lives and reduced disaster impacts nationwide.
Sylvester Teh, visibly moved by the recognition, expressed his gratitude to the agency. “It’s an honor to be recognized for the work I love doing. This award is not just for me but for every member of the NDMA team who has supported me throughout the year,” he said.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from staff, who pledged to build on the achievements of 2024 and make 2025 even more impactful.