By Emmanuel Gamson
Sekondi (W/R), July 02, GNA – Mr Joseph Nelson, the Western Regional Minister, says the recent flooding incidents across parts of the country underscore the urgent need for a national reawakening towards environmental stewardship, civic discipline, and respect for the laws of the country.
He said the devastating incident called for stricter adherence to planning standards, responsible waste management practices, and a renewed commitment by all citizens to protect the environment and preserve natural resources for future generations.
He was speaking at the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving Service, organised by the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly (STMA), at Sekondi.
It was on the theme: “Resetting Our Values to Build the Ghana We Want”.
The service brought together religious leaders from the Christian and Muslim faiths, traditional leaders, heads of department, security service personnel, students, and members of the public.
Mr Nelson said the theme for the occasion called upon every Ghanaian to reflect deeply on the principles and virtues that defined them as a people and to recommit themselves to the ideals that could propel the nation towards sustainable growth and development.
He said: “The recent flood incidents across parts of the country, occasioned by indiscriminate littering, illegal mining activities, the obstruction of natural waterways, poor sanitation practices, uncontrolled urbanisation, and the gross disregard for development control protocols and spatial planning requirements, provide a sobering reminder of the consequences of neglecting our collective responsibilities.
“While we commiserate with our people who have been affected negatively by these flood incidents, we should also remind ourselves that if we are to reset our values and build the Ghana we want, we must embrace responsibility, accountability, and sustainable practices in every aspect of our lives.”
The Western Regional Minister also urged the citizens to place the interest of the nation above all other considerations and be responsible to build stronger and more resilient communities.
Mr Nelson commended the Christian and Muslim leaders for their unwavering commitment to promoting inter-faith dialogue, peaceful coexistence, and moral values within communities.
“This joint service stands as a shining example of the unity and brotherhood that we must continue to nurture and uphold,” he added.
He charged all Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies to continue collaborating with faith-based organisations, traditional institutions, and civil society groups to promote the values that strengthened communities and fostered sustainable development in the region.
Mr Frederick F. Faidoo, the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE), urged the people to let the prayer and thanksgiving service be matched by their personal commitments towards building a prosperous nation for all.
He gave the assurance that the STMA remained committed to providing the infrastructure, and sustainable social services needed to elevate the metropolis.
“We want a Sekondi-Takoradi that proudly leads this nation in sustainable structural development, civic pride, and economic excellence, Mr Faidoo said.
GNA
Edited by Justina Hilda Paaga/Benjamin Mensah
Reporter: Emmanuel Gamson
Reporter’s email address: [email protected]