By Philip Antoh
The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim, has assured both the President and the public that Ghana will win the fight against sanitation.
According to the Minister, the nation is making progress in tackling the long-standing issue of poor sanitation through a united national effort and renewed commitment at all levels.
He noted that the strong public participation, media support, and active roles of traditional and religious leaders in the national sanitation day events are clear signs of advancement.
The Minister spoke during the November National Sanitation Day exercise, which included monitoring activities in the La Dade-Kotopon Municipality, Ledzokuku Municipality, and Krowor Municipality.
Some of the monitored areas in these municipalities included Tsui Bleoo Last Stop Down to Mobil, and from Nungua Secondary School to Addongonno Street and the Railway line.
Mr. Ibrahim remarked on the impressive enthusiasm from participants, leading to about 98% compliance.
However, the main issue encountered was the lack of logistical support.
He mentioned that the Ministry is still working on acquiring necessary sanitation equipment, such as dustbins, containers, compactors, wheelbarrows, wellington boots, and shovels.
“I am confident that with increased efforts in obtaining these logistics, the upcoming December cleanup will be even more successful,” he stated.
The Minister also mentioned that President John Dramani Mahama is expected to soon launch new sanitation equipment, which will help ensure timely provision of the necessary resources to support this initiative.
He added that in partnership with the Municipal, Metropolitan, and District Chief Executives, along with relevant sector ministries, plans are in place to install more streetlights to enhance visibility and safety during these activities.
On ESPA Demands
Concerning the Environmental Service Providers Association (ESPA), “I chose not to make any public comments following their recent announcement of an ultimatum to the government by November.7”
“Instead, I preferred to engage in dialogue. As a Ministry, we have had productive discussions with ESPA to address their issues, and I assured them that I would meet with other stakeholders to seek sustainable solutions,” he stated.
Collective Involvement
Oboade Nortse King Professor Nii Odaifio Welentsi III, the Nungua Mantse, reiterated his dedication to supporting the President’s directive for the initiative, highlighting the need for collective involvement to maintain progress in combating poor sanitation.
He urged the Member of Parliament and the Municipal Chief Executive of La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Assembly to meet with the management of La Palm Royal Beach, Pleasure Beach, and Laboma Beach at the Regional House of Chiefs to emphasize that sanitation is a shared responsibility, not just the government’s duty.
“The management of these facilities should contribute to the proper reconstruction of the gutters along the main road leading to their properties, as this will enhance environmental hygiene and improve the attractiveness of their businesses,” he added.
Nii Welentsi III, who is also the President of the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs, urged the public to develop a culture of cleanliness without waiting for orders.
He reminded community leaders of their duties, emphasizing that leadership involves more than just meetings and appearances; it requires service and accountability to the people.
He warned against the illegal sale of lands, cautioning that unregulated actions could result in future issues.
“If we keep selling lands irresponsibly, we might one day find ourselves purchasing lands from strangers or having none left to buy,” he remarked.
House Of Chiefs To Control Land Sales
He revealed that the Regional House of Chiefs will soon implement a policy to control land sales, mentioning that anyone selling over an acre without permission would face penalties.
Nii Welentsi III emphasized that sustainable sanitation and proper land management are collective duties that need the active participation of citizens, traditional leaders, and the private sector.