A GNA Feature by Muyid Deen Suleman
Kumasi Feb 21, GNA – Successive governments in Ghana have continuously struggled with the issue of repatriating foreign beggars from the country despite numerous efforts.
Scenario
For instance, initiatives aimed at identifying and deporting these individuals have encountered various challenges, such as legal barriers and lack of cooperation from other countries.
The lack of a comprehensive strategy to address this issue has further compounded the problem in the country, especially Kumasi where the foreign beggars and their children have taken over the principal streets.
The presence of foreign beggars, especially those from Niger, Nigeria, Chad, South Sudan and other neighboring countries, not only strain local resources but also raises concerns about security and public health.
Kumasi and around
Around Kumasi central mosque and its environs in the Ashanti Region, a sizable number of individuals, commonly referred to as beggars, were observed by the Ghana News Agency (GNA) engaging in activities such as bathing and defecating in public areas with little regard for established norms.
This behaviour raised concerns among the local community and authorities alike.
The GNA visited the Department of Social Welfare to engage officials and gather insights on the growing presence of these individuals on the streets.
Surprisingly, upon arrival, most authorities were reluctant to discuss the issue at hand.
This lack of transparency only added to the mystery surrounding the situation.
Implications
In a bustling city like Kumasi, the sight of individuals openly disregarding basic hygiene practices in public spaces can have far-reaching implications.
The implications of such actions extend beyond mere inconvenience, to potentially posing health risks to the public.
Therefore, it becomes imperative for relevant authorities to address this issue promptly and effectively.
Moreover, the presence of these beggars in such prominent areas like the vicinity of the central mosque, underscores the need for a comprehensive strategy to tackle the root causes of such behaviours.
Socio-economic factors
It is crucial to delve deeper into the socio-economic factors that may be driving these individuals to resort to such practices in public places.
As the community grapples with this challenge, collaboration between various stakeholders, including governmental agencies, community leaders, and civil society organizations, will be essential in devising sustainable solutions.
By fostering a sense of collective responsibility and promoting awareness about proper sanitation practices, it is possible to create a more conducive environment for all residents of Kumasi.
Ultimately, addressing public hygiene requires a concerted effort from all parties involved to ensure a cleaner and healthier environment.
Challenges
However, the failure to effectively repatriate foreign beggars reflects poorly on the government’s ability to manage immigration and address social issues.
Inadequate funding and limited coordination among relevant agencies have hindered progress in this area.
Furthermore, the lack of sustainable solutions perpetuates the cycle of poverty and dependency among these individuals.
Recommendations
It is, therefore, imperative for the NDC government to prioritize this issue and work towards long-term solutions that address the root causes of foreign beggary in Ghana.
The persistent challenges faced in repatriating foreign beggars underscore the need for a more comprehensive and coordinated approach.
By addressing legal, financial, and social aspects of this issue, the government can effectively tackle the problem and ensure the well-being of both local and foreign populations.
Failure to take decisive action will only perpetuate the cycle of vulnerability and hinder the country’s development efforts.
The government must engage in diplomatic discussions with neighboring countries to enhance cooperation in repatriation efforts and allocate sufficient resources to implement effective strategies.
Public awareness campaigns can be launched to educate the local population on the challenges of foreign beggars to garner support for repatriation initiatives.
By taking proactive measures and fostering collaboration at both national and international levels, Ghana can make significant strides in addressing foreign beggary and promoting social welfare for all individuals within its borders.
GNA