It is estimated that over twenty percent of the global population lacks access to basic sanitation, including services such as waste management, wastewater treatment and disposal, and handwashing facilities within the home. In Ghana, National Sanitation Day is observed on the first Saturday of each month. This government-led initiative promotes environmental sanitation and aims to reduce the prevalence of diseases associated with poor hygiene practices.
The reintroduction of the National Sanitation Day is intended to create awareness and encourage participation in environmental sanitation activities and promote environmental cleanliness to reduce environmental sanitation-related disease.
The clean-up exercise is part of activities earmarked for the celebration of Ashanti Fest. A festival of several activities initiated by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, to showcase the rich culture of the people of Ashanti and other economic and business potentials that exist in the region.
The clean-up exercise in the Obuasi East Municipal Assembly took place at Tutuka car station and the Tutuka market, where drains were choked with plastics and organic waste.
Mr. Eric Aboagye-Mensah, the Acting Municipal Chief Executive for Obuasi East Municipality, spoke to the media after the event, cautioned community members and market women against indiscriminate littering.
Sanitation is a collective responsibility that requires the efforts of everyone. We all have a role to play in keeping our community clean, whether it’s disposing of waste properly, cleaning our homes and surroundings, marketing, or participating in community clean-up exercises.
“I urge each and every one of you to take ownership of our community’s sanitation. Let’s work together to keep our streets, markets, and public spaces clean. Let’s dispose of waste properly, report sanitation issues to the authorities, and participate in community clean-up exercises” Eric Aboagye-Mensah Added.
The exercise was in partnership with the Keep Obuasi Clean Campaign (KOCC) and Clean Team Ghana.
Mr. Francis Mensah, KOCC coordinator, said the main motive of their existence is to promote cleanliness and ensure that the whole communities in Obuasi are clean.
“We joined the Sanitation Day program because we believe that proper sanitation is a fundamental human right. We recognize that poor sanitation practices can lead to the spread of diseases, environmental degradation, and social stigma.
By joining this program, we aim to contribute to the national effort to improve sanitation and promote environmental sustainability.” Francis Mensah said.
The exercise was joined by assembly members, security agencies, departmental heads, and staff of the assembly and Adzowu Kofi William, one of the shortlisted applicants for Obuasi East Municipal Chief Executive.