Enchi: Mr. Wilbert Petty Brentum, the Western North Regional Minister, has issued a stern warning to the residents of the Aswin Municipality, cautioning them against the practice of dumping refuse and constructing buildings along waterways. He emphasized that these actions significantly contribute to flooding during the rainy season.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Minister delivered this warning during a two-day nationwide clean-up exercise in the Aowin Municipality. This initiative was part of a directive from President John Dramani Mahama, aimed at cleaning up seven regions severely affected by recent floods, to prevent outbreaks of cholera and other diseases.
Participating in the exercise at Enchi, the capital of Aowin Municipality, Mr. Brentum pointed out that while the region's low-lying geography makes it naturally susceptible to floods, the recent flooding incidents were exacerbated by human activities. He highlighted illegal mining, sand winning along riverbanks, indiscriminate tree felling, and other harmful environmental practices as significant contributors.
Mr. Brentum further addressed the impact of unauthorized construction along waterways and the indiscriminate dumping of refuse, which obstructs drains and water bodies, leading to floods during heavy rainfall. He urged residents to discontinue these harmful practices, underlining the importance of a clean environment for maintaining good health.
Dr. Stephen Ntow Morcher, the Municipal Chief Executive for Aowin, echoed the Minister's sentiments, stressing the importance of the clean-up initiative to President Mahama and the Regional Minister. He encouraged residents, particularly the youth, to actively participate in the exercise to ensure its success. Dr. Morcher also committed to clearing clogged gutters and dredging major streams around Enchi to mitigate future flooding risks.
Mr. Paul Ntsuga, the Western North Regional Environmental Health Officer, advised residents to refrain from littering and to utilize dustbins placed at strategic locations. The clean-up exercise was conducted across several communities including Enchi, Jensue, Nyankamam, Boinso, Achimfo, Omanpe, Kwawu, Kwame Elubo, Nsuo Akyire, Banaso, Ebbikwawkrom, and Agyeikrom.