By Elizabeth Larkwor Baah
Tema, March 03, GNA — Mr. Abukari Abdul-Wahab, Municipal Head of Environmental Department, Krowor Municipal Assembly, has emphasised the importance of the monthly clean-up exercise initiated by the Greater Accra Regional Minister.
Mr. Abdul-Wahab noted that it would not only improve sanitation but also foster unity between residents and the assembly.
The exercise forms part of the Greater Accra Region Minister’s initiative to promote environmental cleanliness and public health and foster community participation in waste management.
He highlighted the need for collective action in maintaining a clean environment, noting that sanitation challenges required the combined efforts of both local authorities and community members during the regional sanitation day.
“The monthly clean-up exercise is not just about keeping our surroundings clean; it is also an opportunity for residents and the assembly to work together, this strengthens our relationship and ensures a shared responsibility for sanitation,” he stated.
The event, which saw strong participation from residents, traders, and assembly officials led to the desilting of gutters, sweeping of streets, and collection of waste to improve sanitation and waste management within the municipality.
The assembly provided brooms, shovels, wheelbarrows, nose marks, hand gloves and rakes among others to make the exercise effective.
He expressed satisfaction with the level of community involvement, noting that the initiative aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) goal 11, which promotes sustainable cities and communities, and goal 12, which focuses on responsible consumption and production.
The Environmental Director, however warned that individuals who fail to participate in such exercises would face sanctions emphasising that maintaining a clean environment was a civic duty and that non-compliance with sanitation directives would not be tolerated.
He assured residents of its commitment to sustaining the monthly exercise while intensifying public education on sanitation and waste management and called for private sector participation in environmental initiatives to support the local government’s efforts.
Mr. Wahab said the success of the initiative does not depend only on the government but also on the collective effort of citizens and urged all residents to embrace the culture of environmental responsibility to create a healthier and more sustainable community.
Assembly members from Sookpoti, Nii Larweh, Antswere- Gonno and Nii Odai Ablade electoral areas commended the government for bringing the monthly clean-up exercise back and pledged their support to make the initiative effective.
Some residents, however, suggested a change of the day to a Saturday as most residents do not participate with the excuse of going to work on Friday.
Some residents who took part in the exercise expressed appreciation for the initiative, acknowledging its benefits for public health and overall well-being and called for increased sensitisation on waste management, while others suggested that authorities provide more waste bins and improve waste collection services.
“This is a great initiative because a clean environment means fewer diseases; however, the government should also support us by ensuring regular waste collection and providing dustbins in strategic locations,” Mr Justice Acqua, a resident, said.
GNA