Keta: Mr. Wisdom Seadey, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Keta, has declared a ban on all sand winning activities within the municipality. The order, aimed at preserving the area's shores and environment, mandates the local police to enforce the law by arresting and prosecuting offenders.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Seadey cited growing environmental concerns, such as erosion and land loss, as the primary reasons for the ban. Sand winning activities have been identified as major contributors to these issues, necessitating urgent intervention. The MCE emphasized the role of the police in discouraging violations through strict enforcement measures.
Mr. Seadey explained that the ban is part of a larger initiative to protect Keta's land and environment. The municipal assembly is committed to finding sustainable solutions to safeguard beaches, property, and lives against environmental challenges. He acknowledged the ban's potential impact on those who depend on sand winning for their livelihood and assured that alternative employment opportunities would be provided.
The MCE encouraged youths engaged in sand winning to approach the assembly for alternative jobs. The assembly is seeking youths and drivers to operate DRIP machines from other districts to source sand responsibly. Additionally, unemployed individuals are urged to visit the Youth Employment Agency's office for job applications in agriculture, apprenticeship, and entrepreneurship.
Mr. Seadey emphasized the importance of collaboration between municipal authorities, police, and stakeholders in implementing the ban. He called on the public to assist by providing information required to apprehend non-compliant individuals.
Chief Superintendent of Police, Mr. Maxwell Agyemang of the Keta Divisional Police Command, pledged to enforce the law against illegal sand winning, likened to 'galamsey,' which harms the natural environment.
The ban has elicited mixed reactions from local communities. While some residents welcome the decision, others express concern over its impact on livelihoods, urging for quicker and more effective alternatives. Residents of Kedzikope, Abutsiakope, Vodza, and Dzelukope have shown support for the ban, anticipating environmental benefits like reduced erosion and habitat protection to maintain Keta's natural beauty.
