Residents to Face Surcharge for Poor Sanitation in Upper East Region

Bolgatanga: Mr Donatus Atanga Akamugri, Upper East Regional Minister, has announced that residents found responsible for poor sanitation will be held accountable and surcharged. The initiative is part of a series of measures to address the increasing sanitation issues in the region, especially in the municipal and district capitals.According to Ghana News Agency, the Regional Minister made this declaration during a visit to Tindaana Baba Ayeta Yagele Kuure, the traditional spiritual head of Tindonmolgo community in Bolgatanga. The visit aimed to express gratitude for his support and seek further cooperation from the Tindaana and other stakeholders for the development of the region and its communities.The Minister expressed concern over the sanitation conditions in the region, particularly in Bolgatanga, and emphasized the government's commitment to changing the situation. He highlighted the growing problem of indiscriminate waste disposal, clogged drains, and unclean environments in many communities, urgi ng residents to take responsibility for maintaining cleanliness.Mr Akamugri stated that the government plans to reintroduce the national sanitation day and enhance monitoring efforts to ensure community cleanliness. He mentioned that environmental units would be utilized more effectively by assigning specific communities for inspections, with the possibility of surcharging residents who fail to maintain cleanliness.Despite the efforts of sanitation companies like Zoomlion, the Minister attributed the persistent filth to residents' attitudes and inadequate enforcement of sanitation laws. He expressed confidence that the inspections and new strategy would deter poor sanitation practices and promote a culture of cleanliness and shared responsibility.The Minister also cautioned that unauthorized structures within towns would be demolished, urging traditional leaders to educate their communities on compliance. He assured that the enforcement would be impartial and not influenced by political status.In resp onse, Tindaana Baba Ayeta Yagele Kuure expressed his trust in the Minister's ability to improve the region, which he described as underdeveloped. He noted that the Upper East Region had been overlooked by previous governments and emphasized the need for development.The Tindaana pledged his spiritual and physical support to the Minister, encouraging him to work towards leaving a significant legacy for the region. He assured the Minister of the support of the local deities and urged him to remain committed to doing what is right for the people.