By Dennis Peprah
Dormaa-Ahenkro, (Bono), Oct. 7, GNA-Professor Emmanuel Arhin, a lecturer at the Department of Geospatial Sciences, Dormaa-Ahenkro campus of the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) says new research reveals high exposure of toxicants in the Dormaa Municipality.
He explained that high exposure of lead, arsenic, and chromium in the municipality was basically due to growing environmental pollution from especially chemically induced farming, industrial activities, and poultry production.
He expressed concern that the lead concentration in the municipality remained higher, saying that the university was presently tracing the source of the lead.
Prof Arhin who is a Professor of Applied Geology, stated that if people exposed themselves directly to those harmful chemicals, they could contract Non-Communicable Diseases.
He revealed the research findings, conducted by the Department in an interview with the media on the sidelines of a symposium to mark the 2026 celebration of the International Geodiversity Day at Dormaa-Ahenkro in the Bono Region.
The Department of Geospatial Sciences of the UENR organised the symposium on the theme: “Geodiversity and environmental sustainability”.
Approved on 22 November 2021 by the 193 Member States attending UNESCO’s General Conference, the International Geodiversity Day is celebrated worldwide every year on October 6, to highlight the importance of Earth’s nonliving nature.
Prof Arhin called for proper management of industrial waste and poultry by-products as well as appropriate application of agro-chemicals by farmers in the municipality.
“Though Dormaa isn’t having heavy industries, however, exhaust fumes and oil from vehicles raise some toxic substances”, he stated.
Dr Henry K Kokofu, a former Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) called on concerted, decisive and concrete efforts to tackle environmental challenges in the country.
He noted that the role of traditional authorities remained integral in addressing environmental ills and challenges.
Dr Kokofu noted that as the embodiment of the people and custodian of lands, rivers, and forest resources, chiefs and queen-mothers ought to be empowered enough to protect those natural resources.
Besides, he said Article 39 of the 1992 Constitution placed an obligation on citizens to protect and safeguard the environment.
Barima Twumasi Bekoe, the Chief of Kofiasua and Twafohene (sub-chief) of the Dormaa Dormaa Traditional Council described the research findings as worrying.
He gave the assurance that the traditional council remained committed to supporting the university to address emerging life threats and challenges in the area.
GNA
Reporter: Dennis Peprah/Kenneth Odeng Adade
Email: [email protected]