The Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, has called for stricter sanctions against individuals who litter indiscriminately, emphasizing that stronger enforcement of sanitation laws is essential to tackling the growing problem of poor environmental hygiene.
He made this call on Friday while overseeing the ongoing two-day National Sanitation Day activities across Sekondi-Takoradi in the Western Region.
This nationwide effort, aimed at improving waste management and promoting environmental cleanliness, brought together security agencies, local authorities, sanitation workers, and community groups to clear clogged drains, sweep streets, and remove heaps of trash from public areas.
The exercise started around 7:40 a.m. at Sekondi Komfoase, where personnel from the Western Naval Command, Sekondi District Police Command, the Ghana National Fire Service, and other security agencies, with logistical support from Zoomlion Ghana Limited, carried out an extensive clean-up effort.
During nearly three hours, the teams desilted and washed several heavily clogged drains while clearing waste from major streets and other public spaces within Sekondi.
Speaking to journalists after inspecting activities at various sites, Mr. Nelson emphasized that environmental cleanliness should not be limited to occasional cleanup campaigns but must become a daily responsibility for every Ghanaian.
He pointed out that while periodic efforts are useful, lasting improvements can only be achieved through ongoing public commitment, increased education, and strict enforcement of sanitation laws.
The Regional Minister also called for harsher penalties for those who dispose of waste irresponsibly, arguing that offenders must be held accountable for actions that threaten public health and environmental safety.
“We cannot keep organizing cleanup efforts while people continue to litter without facing consequences. Those who violate our sanitation laws must be sanctioned. We need stronger enforcement alongside ongoing public education to change attitudes towards cleanliness,” he stated.
Mr. Nelson further urged residents to develop good waste-disposal habits and support the District Assembly’s authorities’ initiatives to keep communities clean.
Meanwhile, the Flag Officer Commanding of the Western Naval Command, Commodore Samuel Ayelazono, reaffirmed the Navy’s support for efforts that promote environmental sanitation.
He urged residents to see cleanliness as a civic duty, stressing that maintaining a clean environment is crucial for public health and sustainable growth.
The National Sanitation Day effort is part of the government’s renewed push to improve sanitation standards and inspire collective action towards building cleaner, healthier communities across the country.
