Oti IRECOP manager calls for stricter sanitation laws to curb filth

Jamillah Ghartey, Oti Regional Operations Manager of IRECOP, called on the government and relevant authorities to enforce stricter sanitation by-laws to address poor waste management and improve cleanliness across the country. She made these remarks in Dambai in the Krachi East Municipality during the National Clean-up Exercise initiated by President John Dramani Mahama following the June 29 flood disaster that affected parts of Greater Accra and other areas. Madam Ghartey stated that weak enforcement of existing regulations continues to hinder efforts to maintain clean communities, urging Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to consistently apply sanctions to encourage responsible waste disposal.

Madam Ghartey said enforcement must be complemented with practical measures, including the provision of "bolla" containers at markets and other strategic locations to make waste disposal easier and improve collection. She linked the absence of adequate waste bins in homes and public spaces to indiscriminate dumping, which she connected to recent flooding incidents where choked gutters and poor sanitation worsened the impact of heavy rains. Madam Ghartey expressed concern about the low participation in the exercise, noting that some residents closed their shops but failed to join the clean-up activities, leaving much of the work to security personnel and other volunteers. She also criticised the limited involvement of some public officials.