Political Scientist and Head of the Centre for European Studies at the University of Ghana, Dr. Kwame Asah Asante has lauded efforts to regulate e-waste disposal in the country, particularly at the Agbogbloshie scrapyard.
He acknowledged the bold initiative taken by Dr. Murtala to form a committee, including officials from the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MESTI), to establish fair pricing for e-waste.
“Electronic waste has been a nuisance to society for a very long time. The [area, where these] old appliances are burned, emits all manner of fumes, and people inhale them without being aware of the long-term health consequences. If the Ministry is taking the trouble to deal with this, I think it’s fair and proper.’’
Dr. Kwame Asah Asante Political Scientist
He emphasized the need for the Minister of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation to extend this conversation beyond e-waste to address the growing problem of plastic pollution in the country.
“The use of polythene is becoming a major nuisance. If you watch reports, you’ll see that fishermen sometimes pull up polythene bags. It’s a problem.’’
Dr. Kwame Asah Asante Political Scientist
He further advocated for a shift towards biodegradable materials such as paper and called for the development of sustainable waste management strategies.
“Anything classified as waste should be [repurposed] to improve our society. Waste management presents opportunities for job creation, remember development is nothing but imagination. Let’s be imaginative enough and create things out of which will build our society.”
Dr. Kwame Asah Asante Political Scientist
Meanwhile, Studies have shown that microplastics are found in various parts of the human body, including the male reproductive system. Some even exist in toothpaste. These are urgent issues that require immediate action.
A Call for Monetary Stability and Economic Growth
Turning his attention to economic matters, Dr. Asah Asante welcomed President John Dramani Mahama’s appointment of Dr. Johnson Pandit Kwesi Asiamah as Governor of the Bank of Ghana and Dr. Zakari Mumuni as First Deputy Governor. He commended the emphasis placed on restoring monetary stability and rebuilding trust in the financial sector.
“Anytime we have fresh appointments, I am happy because they bring a change in the status quo. We hope that these appointments will improve the lives of Ghanaians.’’
Dr. Kwame Asah Asante Political Scientist
Dr. Asah Asante expressed optimism about the president’s directive for the central bank to focus on currency stability and sustainable economic development.
“Governance is about improving people’s lives. If monetary stability is emphasized, it will drive the new leadership to find lasting solutions to the country’s economic challenges.”
Dr. Kwame Asah Asante Political Scientist
He congratulated both appointees, particularly Dr. Zakari Mumuni, whom he described as a personal friend and former classmate.
“We, the Vandals, are happy today that one of our own is now the First Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana. Congratulations, Zack! but beyond the joy, we want results.’’
Dr. Kwame Asah Asante Political Scientist
Dr. Asah Asante also issued a strong warning to the new Bank of Ghana leadership, making it clear that the public would hold them accountable.
“We will support every good initiative, but if you cross the line, we won’t hesitate to call you out. Give us results. Help us stabilize our currency, strengthen our economy, and move Ghana towards self-reliance.”
“You [Dr. Zakari Mumuni] have studied economics, and you know what to do. Please help us so that your names will be written in Ghana’s history as the ones who turned the tide and made every Ghanaian smile.”
Dr. Kwame Asah Asante Political Scientist
In conclusion, he challenged the new central bank leadership to make history by steering Ghana’s economy towards long-term stability and prosperity.
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