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

Food safety is essential because it protects public health by preventing foodborne illnesses, which affect millions of people globally.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) warns that foodborne illness should never occur since it is always preventable.

According to WHO, despite being mostly preventable, foodborne infections continue to be a significant global burden, accounting for at least 200 ailments that have an impact on health, livelihoods, education, and economies.

Estimates from the United Nations (UN), indicate that contaminated food is a serious global public health concern that results in 1.5 million fatalities and 866 million illnesses annually.

World Food Safety Day (WFSD) is celebrated annually on June 7. It was created by the UN and emphasises how governments, food producers, and consumers all have a part to play in avoiding, identifying, and controlling foodborne hazards.

This year’s theme for WFSD, “From burden to solutions – safe food everywhere,” emphasises how information on sickness, its burden, and lost lives can direct action toward targeted and affordable solutions.

People eat food from a variety of places, including their homes, markets, restaurants, roadside eateries, schools and office canteens. A combination of foods may occasionally have an impact on some individuals but not others. It is said that “one man’s meat is another man’s poison.” 

Many have experienced severe health issues as a result of eating contaminated food without realising it. In some situations, this has resulted in food poisoning, and in other circumstances, it has caused fatalities.

These risks could be biological in nature, where foodborne illnesses are caused by living microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. Also, cleaning products, herbicides, hazardous metals, and food additives can occasionally contaminate food.

Foreign materials including glass, metal pieces, plastic, hair, or bandages have occasionally been unintentionally put to food and caused damage.

In sensitive people, proteins including wheat, dairy, shellfish, and peanuts can potentially trigger severe allergic reactions.

The Spectator hopes that raising public awareness of the importance of adhering to fundamental food safety regulations, such as washing hands, sanitising surfaces, separating raw and cooked foods, and practising excellent personal hygiene, is crucial during this rainy season.

Food handling should also be done carefully, whether it is for regular meals at home or for a big gathering or event.

According to food science experts, contamination can be avoided by heating food to the right internal temperature and refrigerating perishable items. Accurately labelling and storing chemicals away from food is a crucial step in preventing food contamination.

To guarantee that individuals eat a safety-free diet, government must improve food control systems, surveillance networks, and public health regulations.