Editorial
Let’s respect our Cedi notes
Dear Editor,
I am writing to express concern over the improper manner in which some individuals are handling the Cedi notes. I have observed for the past few months the sorry state of some of the notes especially the one Ghana Cedi which seem to be losing its value.
Many of the notes I see are very dirty and worn-out due to improper handling by sections to the public, especially traders. Often, I chance on squabbles between bus conductors (drivers’ mates) and passengers on commercial vehicles as some passengers would not accept disfigured notes as change. Similarly, some bus conductors do not accept torn notes as payment from passengers.
This ‘conflict’ does not involve bus conductors and passengers but extends to traders and food vendors as well who also refuse ‘unpresentable’ cedi notes from their customers. I believe all of these could be traced to the general lack of care for the notes which were printed with the tax payer’s money.
I, therefore, wish to call on the National Commission on Civic Education (NCCE) and other key stakeholders to reactivate public education on the need for individuals to be more responsible in handling cash.
We have always been encouraged to neatly fold and keep paper notes in a wallet or a purse but many people continue to disregard this advice. We all need to change our ways.
Elizabeth Agyeibea Ackon,
University of Cape Coast.
Dear Editor,
The performance of the Black Stars of Ghana has plunged the entire nation into a joyful mood.
Very few people gave the team any chance at the World Cup but with the little they have shown, Ghanaians have shown massive support.
All the two matches they have played with England and Panama have been characterized by unending joy after the games.
Apart from the team’s performance, the theme song by Ghana’s ace musician, Kofi Kinata have taken the celebration to a new dimension.
The song resonates through every corner both match and non-match days. And when they are played through the large speakers, it gets both young and old dancing their hearts out.
This is a mood I wish Ghanaians would sustain for a long time to keep the unity and friendship among us. Within this period, politics have been relegated to the background and football dominating the discussion. This is what football can do, let’s keep it growing. For the Black Stars, we say ‘Ayekoo.’
Mawuli Quaye,
Accra
Dear Editor,
I have, over time, observed the growing practice of drying washed clothes on the pavements of some principal streets in Accra, as well as on the grassy medians of major roads.
This practice is often carried out by individuals who have made these public spaces their place of abode.
As a country that seeks to maintain a clean, orderly, and beautiful environment, I believe it is time for the government, through the relevant local authorities, to address this issue.
The use of pavements and road medians for drying clothes undermines efforts to promote cleanliness and urban beautification.
Furthermore, this situation could negatively affect Ghana’s tourism industry. Tourists who visit our country do not only come to see historical landmarks and tourist attractions; they also pay attention to the cleanliness, organization, and general appearance of our streets and public spaces.
The sight of clothes hanging on pavements and road medians creates an impression that is inconsistent with the image of a modern and welcoming city.
Equally disturbing is the practice of bathing children on road medians and street pavements. Apart from raising concerns about public hygiene and safety, such activities diminish the dignity and proper use of these public spaces.
As a concerned citizen, I believe that if we are truly committed to keeping our cities clean, attractive, and conducive to tourism and investment, then we must take decisive action.
Local authorities should enforce existing bylaws and regulations governing the use of public spaces and implement measures to prevent such practices.
By doing so, we can preserve the beauty of our cities and project a positive image of Ghana to both residents and visitors alike.
Kojo K,
Madina
