The Eastern Regional Minister, Hon. Rita Akosua Awatey, has commended residents of Koforidua and its environs for their massive participation in the National Sanitation Day clean-up exercise. She described the event as “special and inspiring,” noting the enthusiasm shown by citizens in keeping their surroundings clean.
Speaking during the exercise, Hon. Awatey said she has attended many clean-up activities in the past, but this one stood out because of the overwhelming public involvement. “When I was coming, I realized many people had closed their shops, which shows that people are ready for the clean-up exercise and now understand what sanitation is about,” she said.
She emphasized that the government of Ghana recently launched the Sanitation Day initiative to encourage citizens to take responsibility for their environment. “Even the Bible says cleanliness is next to godliness. Our environment reflects who we are, and we must keep it clean,” she added.
The Minister, however, expressed concern that while some residents were cleaning, others were still seen throwing waste into drains. “We have water stagnation here because of choked drains. People must understand that keeping the environment clean is for their own good,” she cautioned.
Also speaking at the event, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for New Juaben South, Hon. Ransford Owusu Boakye, thanked the people for their impressive turnout despite the short notice. “Only last week we had a clean-up exercise, and yet people still came out in large numbers today. It shows that our engagement with the community is working,” he said.
He pointed out that the sanitation challenge at the Prince Boateng Roundabout has persisted for over 30 to 40 years, even since his childhood. “We can’t continue living in filth. My team and I have asked the technical officers to assess the situation so we can find a long-term solution. We need a proper drainage system here once and for all,” he stated.
Hon. Owusu Boakye acknowledged that addressing the issue will require a huge investment but expressed optimism that national authorities will support the initiative. “Koforidua, being the regional capital, gives an impression of the entire Eastern Region. We must therefore ensure that our city is neat and tidy,” he concluded.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Priscilla Amuzu
