By Dorothy Frances Ward
Kumasi, Sept. 30, GNA – Nana Antwi Agyei Brempong II, Atwimahene, has stressed the need for collective action to keep the city of Kumasi clean and restore its greenery.
He pointed out that residents, traditional authorities, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), businesses and other stakeholders, had the responsibility to ensure that Kumasi was healthier and beautiful in terms of sanitation.
Speaking to the Ghana News Agency in an interview in Kumasi, he said maintaining a clean and environmentally friendly city should not be regarded as the sole responsibility of the local authorities, but rather, a shared civic duty that required the active participation of everyone.
He, pointed out, that, the rapid growth of Kumasi made it necessary for residents to pay greater attention to sanitation, proper waste disposal, protection of green spaces and the maintenance of trees and other vegetation.
He said a clean city provided a healthier and more attractive environment for residents, while adequate greenery could help improve the quality of the urban environment.
The Chief therefore urged residents to desist from indiscriminate dumping of refuse in drains, streets, open spaces and other unauthorised locations.
He also appealed to traders and commercial operators to keep their surroundings clean and make proper arrangements for the disposal of waste generated through their activities.
The traditional leader said efforts to clean the city would have limited impact if residents continued to create waste and dispose of it indiscriminately.
Nana Antwi Agyei stressed that sanitation should begin at the individual and household levels, with residents taking responsibility for the cleanliness of their immediate surroundings.
He further called for greater attention to the protection of trees and green spaces as Kumasi continued to expand.
According to him, urban development should go hand in hand with environmental protection to ensure that the city remains clean and beautiful for both present and future generations.
He encouraged schools, religious organisations, community groups, traditional authorities and civil society organisations to intensify environmental education and encourage young people to develop positive attitudes towards sanitation and environmental protection.
The Atwimahene also urged residents to participate in community clean-up activities and support initiatives aimed at improving the appearance and environmental conditions of the city.
He said traditional authorities had an important role to play in mobilising communities and promoting responsible environmental practices, but their efforts would be more effective when supported by residents.
He called on property owners and developers to consider landscaping and tree planting as part of efforts to improve the urban environment.
GNA
Edited by Kwabia Owusu-Mensah/Benjamin Mensah
Reporter: Dorothy Frances Ward
Reporter’s email address: [email protected]