Adaklu District Chief Executive (DCE) Jerry Yao Ameko has issued a stern warning that the district will not tolerate environmental degradation under his watch. He emphasized that environmental protection and sanitation issues are non-negotiable in the district. Mr. Ameko made these remarks in an interview with the Ghana News Agency following reports of flooding in parts of the Volta region after a heavy rainfall on September 29.
Mr. Ameko urged residents to view environmental protection as a shared civic responsibility, rather than a task solely for the government. He stressed the importance of local ownership in promoting a culture of environmental responsibility. The DCE also called on Assembly members, traditional and religious leaders to be proactive in implementing community-based mechanisms to maintain the cleanliness of their communities, rivers, and wetlands.
The Adaklu DCE highlighted the consequences of neglecting environmental protection, citing the suffering of communities and the compromise of future generations. He reminded the Blue Water Guards operating in the district that their work will be evaluated not only by the arrests they make or reports they file but also by the condition of the streams and ecosystems. Mr. Ameko emphasized the vital role of rivers in supporting agriculture, public health, livelihoods, and future prosperity.
Mr. Ameko also entreated Environmental Health Officers to strictly enforce the Assembly's sanitation bylaws, regardless of the individuals or groups involved. He urged traditional authorities to continue observing the national sanitation day and report those who flout the directive to the Assembly. The DCE emphasized the importance of desilting gutters and weeding surroundings to prevent floods and diseases, especially with the onset of the rains.
The Adaklu DCE commended President John Dramani Mahama for initiating the National Sanitation Day, noting that the millions of Ghana Cedis spent on drugs could be channeled into other productive ventures if the country was clean and healthy. He encouraged communities to take ownership of their sanitation and environmental protection.
Mr. Ameko, who is also the Dean of Volta region MDCEs, reiterated the importance of protecting rivers and wetlands. He noted that these natural resources are crucial for the well-being of communities and future generations. The DCE emphasized that environmental protection is a collective responsibility that requires the active participation of all stakeholders.
The Adaklu DCE's warning and calls to action come as the district and the broader Volta region continue to grapple with the challenges of environmental degradation and flooding. His efforts aim to promote a culture of environmental responsibility and ensure that the district remains a safe and healthy place for its residents.
Key points
- Adaklu DCE Jerry Yao Ameko warns against environmental degradation in the district.
- The DCE calls on residents to take ownership of environmental protection.
- The district aims to promote a culture of environmental responsibility.
