Editorial
Filth at market places unbearable

Dear Editor,
A Key feature of a progressive nation is its level of sanitation and waste management. Zoomlion and other corporate organisations, have over the years, worked to ensure our cities remain clean but it appears some indiscriminate conducts keep eroding their efforts. Some parts of the Greater Accra Region, including markets at the Kaneshie, Accra Central and Kasoa are engulfed in filth daily with traders liable for the mess. Some of them deliberately dispose waste at unapproved places, arguing that they pay market tolls, therefore, someone else is supposed to keep the market tidy. Recently, I witnessed heap of rubbish being carried away by heavy rains at the Kasoa market as the traders stood helplessly. I thought that would inform them to change their habit but greater volumes of the garbage
emerged the following day. A glance at roads leading to some big markets show plastic waste and heaps of rubbish as pedestrians, drivers and traders struggle to find their way through. It is sad to discover that both young and old condone this unhealthy practice. I, therefore, wish to encourage city authorities to
impose hefty fines on traders who dispose waste haphazardly to serve as deterrent to others. I believe the market places could be tidy but for the recklessness of some of these lawless merchants.
Priscilla Efriyie Anakpong Student,
University of Cape Coast
Editorial
Concern over mentally ill persons roaming Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange
Dear Sir
I write to express my concern over the growing number of mentally ill individuals roaming the Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange in Accra.
This area, a vital transportation hub and commercial centre, has increasingly become home to several persons visibly suffering from mental health issues, often without adequate care or supervision.
This situation poses risks both to the affected individuals and the general public. Some of these individuals are exposed to traffic hazards, unsanitary conditions, and in some cases, hostile treatment from passersby.
There have also been reports of occasional erratic behaviour, which causes fear and discomfort among commuters and vendors.
Mental health is a public health issue, and these individuals deserve compassion, medical attention, and a safe environment.
I urge the Ministry of Health, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, and relevant NGOs to collaborate on a sustainable solution including mental health outreach programmes, rehabilitation, and safe housing.
Kwame Nkrumah Circle should be a symbol of progress, not a place where the vulnerable are left to struggle. Let us act with urgency and humanity.
From John Boateng
Kwame Nkrumah Circle
Editorial
Parents should encourage their wards writing BECE
Dear Editor,
AS the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) takes off across the country starting Wednesday, I write to encourage all candidates taking part in this important step in their academic journey.
Out of a total of 603,328 candidates taking the examination this year, 306,078 are females, whiles the rest 297,250 are males.
Over the years, the examination begins on Monday and ended on Friday but per the timetable, this year’s candidates started on Wednesday and will end next week.
The BECE is not just an exam, it is a milestone from one stage to another. It represents years of hardwork, dedication and the dreams of countless students who hope to continue their education and build a brighter future.
This is where the role of parents, teachers and society become beneficial. Let us offer not only academic support but emotional encouragement to them.
I also appeal to educational authorities to ensure fairness, proper supervision and transparency throughout the examination period.
The journey may be challenging, but with time, focus and discipline they can make it.
I wish to use this platform to wish all of them well.
Naa Koshie, Teshie