Dear Editor,
Given the serious mismanagement noted in the Auditor General’s report on the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), the renewed focus of the President on improving our deteriorating drainage and irrigation systems, and the continual use of grants to help farmers overcome flooding and related crop destruction, it has become clear that the Ministry of Agriculture is struggling to cope with the responsibilities it has been assigned.
This issue may be rooted in poor management and a need for stronger leadership, but this must be determined by the President and his Cabinet. It is an issue which the President must take a closer look into. CRG recommends establishing a Chief of Staff position within the Cabinet to help manage the staff and help Ministers accomplish the objectives associated with key national priorities, which must align with the priorities of the President. This position will also function as a key advisor to the President and ensure the effective use of his or her time.
As for the NDIA, the removal of this critical organisation from within the Ministry of Agriculture and the establishment of a standalone Ministry focused on drainage and irrigation appears to be necessary. There is now added focus and resources being placed into this organization, and it plays a critical role in the safety, health, and prosperity of our citizens. During this period of climate change and the resulting future environmental crisis our nation will face, we cannot afford to lose focus.
The coastal plains will continue to be exposed to an increasing risk of flooding, and our nation must do what is necessary to increase the urgency and importance needed for this organization to begin functioning effectively. The proactive nature of its work demands it and the NDIA’s operations must be highly efficient and dependable to safeguard against future flooding and crop destruction. CRG strongly recommends that the President create a new Ministry and a new Ministerial position to ensure that the urgently needed focus on our drainage and irrigation systems is sustained and maintained.