Mahama Re-launches National Sanitation Day to Boost Cleanliness Efforts Across Ghana

Accra: President John Dramani Mahama has re-launched the National Sanitation Day, a nationwide initiative aimed at promoting cleanliness across the 261 Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) in Ghana. The event, to be observed on the first Saturday of every month starting from October, is part of the government's ongoing efforts to maintain a clean environment.According to Ghana News Agency, the National Sanitation Day was initially launched in 2014 during President Mahama's first administration. The re-launch seeks to empower local government structures by establishing sanitation as a Key Performance Indicator (KPI) for all Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs). This initiative also aims to foster citizen participation and accountability in maintaining a clean environment.Speaking at the event in Madina near Accra, President Mahama emphasized the importance of instilling a sense of cleanliness in children. He disclosed ongoing discussions with the Ministry of Ed ucation to incorporate a curriculum on courtesy and responsible citizenship into the education system, ensuring children grow up with a strong foundation in cleanliness.President Mahama also proposed that Chapter 22 of the 1992 Constitution be amended by the Constitutional Review Committee to empower chiefs to establish Sanitation Courts. These courts would address environmental pollution offenses, leveraging the traditional authority of chiefs, which has been diminished over time.The President expressed his support for restoring some authority to chiefs, particularly in environmental and sanitation matters. He urged the National House of Chiefs and Regional Houses of Chiefs to consider amending Chapter 22 of the Constitution to reinstate some powers of the chiefs, facilitating the establishment of sanitation courts in communities.He clarified that this initiative would complement, not replace, the district administrations' responsibility for sanitation. President Mahama noted that his administration ha d already increased the allocation of funds to district assemblies, ensuring they have the necessary resources to fulfill their obligations.President Mahama emphasized that sanitation is a critical KPI for MMDCEs, with the best-performing districts and traditional areas set to receive rewards. Ahmed Ibrahim, the Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, underscored the re-launch as a bold declaration against environmental pollution and sanitation-related diseases.Ogyeahohuo Yaw Gyebi II, President of the National House of Chiefs, expressed the House's full support for the National Sanitation Day re-launch, reinforcing the government's commitment to keeping the nation clean.