Mahama urges Ghanaians to protect environment after viral Tema New Town sanitation video

President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghanaians to adopt responsible environmental practices following a viral video by environmental advocacy group Buz Stop Boys highlighting poor sanitation conditions at Tema New Town.

The video, which has generated widespread public debate, captured fish-processing activities being carried out in an area surrounded by piles of waste, raising concerns about the effects of poor hygiene practices on public health and livelihoods.

Addressing worshippers during the Men Ministry Day Celebration at the Ringway Gospel Centre Assemblies of God Church on Sunday, August 2, President Mahama said the footage served as a wake-up call for citizens to take personal responsibility for keeping their communities clean.

He noted that while government agencies continue to implement measures to address sanitation challenges, lasting solutions require active participation from individuals and communities.

“Recently I was watching a video, Buz Stop Boys went to Tema New Town and if you see the rubbish there, meanwhile they were drying fish and that fish was supposed to come into the market. The worst one was, some nice woman on the beach doing her business. We must be responsible as citizens,” he said.

The President also criticised the practice of indiscriminate dumping, warning that waste left in drains and public spaces often worsens the impact of flooding when heavy rains occur.

He said some residents resume disposing of plastics, sachet waste, food containers and other refuse into waterways shortly after floods subside, creating conditions that contribute to future disasters.

“Now the floods have gone and so we are like the vulture. Throwing sachet water, Styrofoam, food packaging and everything into the drain, we should remember that when the floods come they will come and meet those things there,” he cautioned.

President Mahama stressed that improving sanitation requires a change in mindset, with citizens recognising their role in protecting the environment and maintaining clean surroundings.

Using a biblical reference, he quoted James 2:17 to emphasise that commitment must be demonstrated through action.

“James 2:17 tells us that faith without works is dead and so if our faith must go with works, then it must show in our character,” he added.

The President’s remarks come at a time when sanitation, waste disposal and flooding remain major concerns across Ghana, with authorities calling for greater public cooperation in maintaining environmental cleanliness.

Prince Antwi

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