The Upper West communications bureau of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) held a retreat for its communications team at SEM-B Hotel in Wa on Sunday, 30th August.
Attendees included constituency communications officers and their deputies, members of the regional communications team, the party’s social media group (SOMNET), media monitors (callers group) and other identifiable NDC groups from across the region.
The retreat focused on strengthening persuasive communication while the party is in government, and on identifying and resolving practical challenges faced by party communicators. Speakers from the national communications team included Hamza Suhuyini Esq., Julius Anthony (Press Secretary at the Ministry of Interior), Dr. Thadeus Kanyiri Banyen and Prof. Sharif Khalid, an economic adviser at the Office of the Vice‑President.
Julius Anthony urged communicators to remain anchored to the truth and to always rely on incontrovertible facts. Hamza Suhuyini stressed that, as the party now holds government office, communicators should adopt more persuasive approaches and avoid any displays of arrogance. Prof. Sharif Khalid described communications as the “lifeblood” of the party and encouraged speakers to present facts in ways that ordinary audiences can understand.
Issah Kantagyeri, Upper West Regional Communications Officer, acknowledged gaps in motivation for party communicators and said available resources are distributed on a rotational basis. “Although I can’t say you’re getting the best treatment, many of you know that previously it wasn’t like this,” he said, adding that he will continue to push for better support.
Mr. Kantagyeri also used the opportunity to thank many party stakeholders for contributing generously towards the program.
During the event, Umar Tiani the Secretary to the Wa Central constituency communications team for the NDC was awarded and recognized as the most hardworking communicator in the Upper West region whose sacrifices were noticeable. He was given a brand new computer.
Alhaji Nurah Issah Danwana, Wa Municipal Chief Executive and deputy regional secretary for the NDC, pledged to ensure the regional communications office in Wa receives a reliable monthly internet bundle.
Several attendees told Yiri News the retreat was invaluable and would improve the quality of the party’s communications across the region.
