Editorial
Stop indiscriminate bush burning
One of the biggest hazards to the environment is indiscriminate bush burning, which has detrimental consequences on the ecosystem, destroying homes, and agricultural land.
In addition, the quantity of smoke in the air might lead to respiratory disorders and other health concerns.
According to a report from our regional correspondent, young people in Ghana’s Northern Region are increasingly burning indiscriminately through the bush in pursuit of rodents, especially during the harmattan season.
According to the report, the majority of these youths light grasses on fire in an attempt to locate and chase after rodents.
However, in the process, the fire gets out of control, destroying nearby buildings and commodities. Due to this improper behaviour in the area during the dry season, the majority of people have lost their farms and other belongings.
The issue is becoming increasingly worrying, particularly in light of the government’s actions but its seeming inability to find long-term solutions.
The Northern Regional Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Manager, Mr. Abu Iddrisu, claims that despite his organisation’s efforts to raise community awareness of the dangers of bush burning through radio and occasionally television, the locals continue to disregard the advisories.
The Spectator expresses worry over this practice and calls on the government to outlaw it in order to protect people, property, and the environment.
We completely agree with Mr. Iddrisu’s request that the government bring legal action against those who break the law in order to discourage others from doing the same.
Additionally, funding is required for the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) to educate the public about the risks associated with careless bush burning in the many villages within their purview.
Farmers should get bushfire management training from the EPA in cooperation with the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and other stakeholders in order to contain bushfires.
To prevent careless bush burning, especially during current harmattan season, all hands must be on deck in order to protect people and property.
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
