Solid waste management remains a critical environmental challenge in Ghana, with indiscriminate disposal of plastic bags and other waste materials posing serious health and sanitation risks. Over the years, various governments have attempted to address the issue, but the problem persists. Recently, Naba Salifubaba Abtamale, the Paramount Chief of the Bongo Traditional Area in the Upper East Region, reiterated the urgency of tackling solid waste management.
During a visit to his palace by the Upper East Regional Minister, Hon. Donatus Atanga, Naba Salifu Baba Atamale expressed his deep concern about the indiscriminate disposal of solid waste. He bemoaned that the indiscriminate disposal of solid waste is nauseating to see. It is an eyesore in most communities. The Chief noted that the situation is deeply disturbing and required immediate attention.
He stressed that the problem could be resolved if the government prioritized the construction of recycling plants in various parts of the country. According to him, a well-structured waste management system would not only address sanitation issues but also create employment opportunities for many Ghanaians.
A Call for Environmental Law Enforcement
Naba Salifu Baba Abtamale urged the government to take swift action on this pledge to ensure stricter enforcement of environmental law.
“The president promised during his campaign that he was going to establish environmental courts. I think we need to tackle this issue very seriously. Even if we are talking about [tiling] of roads or building of infrastructure and the environment is not clean, then it means it’s just like somebody wearing a shirt with bushy hair and without taking a bath.’’
Naba Salifubaba Abtamale Paramaount Chief of Bongo
Responding to the paramount chief’s concerns, the Upper East Regional Minister, Hon. Donatus Atanga, acknowledged the urgency of the matter and assured the chief that his concerns would be relayed to President Mahama.
“During the campaign, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama made it clear that he was going to look into the issue by establishing some systems that can deal with environmental challenges. So he [Naba Baba Salifu] is calling upon the president, through the regional minister, to walk the talk by putting forward concrete proposals that will ensure we have a clean environment.’’
Hon. Donatus Atanga Upper East Regional Minister
The Need for a Holistic Approach
The call by the paramount chief aligns with the broader need for a comprehensive approach to solid waste management in Ghana. Experts argue that beyond recycling plants, effective policies, public awareness, and strict enforcement of sanitation laws are necessary to curb indiscriminate waste disposal.
The concerns raised by the paramount Chief of Bongo serve as a reminder of the pressing need for enhanced solid waste management in Ghana.
This is not just a plea—it is a wake-up call to the government and citizens to recognize that solid waste management is not a secondary issue but a fundamental challenge affecting public health, economic development, and environmental sustainability. His reaffirmation for recycling plants and environmental courts remains a bold vision for a cleaner Ghana, one that requires urgent action rather than mere political rhetoric.
If Ghana is to make meaningful progress in infrastructure, tourism, and economic growth, it must first tackle the filth that threatens its cities and communities. The government must rise to the occasion, translate promises into action, and implement long-term solutions to the waste crisis. A nation that aspires to greatness cannot afford to be buried under the weight of its waste. It is time to act—decisively and without delay.
The government’s response to these concerns will determine whether Ghana can effectively address this environmental challenge and create a cleaner, healthier future for its citizens.
