Accra: The Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA) has called upon stakeholders in the tree crops value chain to maintain sanitation and waste management practices to ensure the quality of produce and uphold Ghana's reputation as an exporter beyond the National Clean-Up Exercise. Dr. Andy Osei Okrah, the Chief Executive Officer of the TCDA, emphasized this in a statement to the Ghana News Agency after leading the Authority's Management and Staff in the nationwide initiative on Friday.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Okrah highlighted the importance of stakeholders, including farmers, aggregators, processors, exporters, industry associations, and Zonal Officers, in considering sanitation as a national duty. He stressed the need to continue the momentum created by the clean-up exercise, as sanitation directly impacts produce quality, farmer livelihoods, and Ghana's standing as a dependable exporter of tree crop commodities.
Dr. Okrah encouraged Zonal Officers to promote regular clean-up activities and implement proper waste management strategies at collection centers, warehouses, and other facilities within the tree crops value chain. He applauded President John Dramani Mahama for initiating the nationwide exercise, recognizing it as a crucial step toward enhancing environmental sanitation.
The statement detailed Dr. Okrah's active participation in the clean-up at the Authority's premises, where he worked alongside Management and Staff to clean, clear refuse, and maintain the surroundings, demonstrating civic responsibility. He commended the staff for their enthusiastic participation, noting that their dedication reflected the Authority's culture of responsibility and teamwork.
The statement further mentioned that TCDA's involvement in the clean-up exercise is part of the Government's larger sanitation agenda and reaffirms the Authority's commitment to environmental responsibility, teamwork, and the sustainable development of Ghana's tree crops sector.