Hon. Jerry Ahmed Shaib, Member of Parliament for Weija Gbawe Constituency and Second Deputy Minority Whip, has attributed Ghana’s sanitation crisis to a poor mindset, saying people litter and dump refuse into drains with impunity, posing a risk to public health.
Speaking in Parliament, Hon. Shaib emphasised the need for a “revolutionary education” on health and the environment, citing instances of poor sanitation practices, including in the capital, Accra, where Metropolitan Assemblies are understaffed, with some sub-districts being run by unqualified staff.
Hon. Shaib also raised concerns about the non-payment of sanitation workers, some of whom have not been paid for up to nine months, and called for the recruitment of more staff, better pay, and improved working conditions.
Additionally, he suggested that the sanitation sector should be opened up to more companies to promote competition and improve services, rather than relying on a single company.
Hon. Shaib warned that the current situation could lead to a surge in diseases, including COVID-19, and urged lawmakers to take immediate action to address the issue.
He also highlighted the plight of sanitation workers, many of whom are elderly and underpaid, and called for their redeployment or retirement with proper compensation.
The lawmaker emphasised the need for a change in mindset and behaviour among Ghanaians, citing instances of littering and poor waste disposal practices, even within the parliamentary precincts.
Hon. Shaib’s remarks underscore the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to address Ghana’s sanitation challenges and promote a culture of environmental responsibility.
The Second Deputy Minority Whip also cautioned that the current sanitation crisis could lead to a situation where people flock to cleaner areas, like Aburi, causing congestion and environmental degradation.
Speaking in Parliament, Hon. Shaib emphasised the need for lawmakers to lead by example and adopt environmentally friendly practices, quoting the Majority Leader’s phrase, “Charity begins at home.”
He stressed that it’s crucial for Ghanaians to change their mindset and behaviour towards the environment and for the government to address the sanitation crisis to prevent a surge in diseases and promote a culture of environmental responsibility.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
