Report by: Ishmael Barfi
Accra, Ghana – To mark Ghana’s 69th Independence Day, the Green Africa Youth Organization (GAYO) participated in a showcase on March 6, launching a campaign for clean air and sustainable waste management.
The event, themed “Building Prosperity, Restoring Hope,” was organized by the Dadekotopon Municipal Assembly at the La Traditional Palace parade park. It brought together school children and notable personalities.
In an interview with Climate Watch, Betty Adjei, GAYO’s Operations and Programs Director, highlighted that clean air is vital for prosperity. “Clean air means protecting the environment, which improves health and creates green jobs,” she said.
Betty explained that GAYO has been active in Ghana for 10 years, working with local authorities to divert plastics, electronics, wood waste, and organic waste from landfills.
The organization runs buyback centers supporting informal waste workers, advocating for their inclusion and protection. “They are crucial waste management frontliners in our communities,” Betty emphasized, “that’s why we must include and protect them.”
The Dadekotopon Municipal Assembly has actively promoted environmental cleanliness through community activities, notably during last year’s Independence Day celebrations.
The campaign extends beyond a single day; it calls for policy action and ongoing community efforts. “We advocate for policy enforcement and community participation,” Betty said, urging households to avoid burning waste, segregate waste properly, and reduce waste generation, for a sustainable future.
Her message resonated with the audience, especially children. “We aim to educate young people about these issues and share key messages,” she added.
Key campaign goals include reducing methane emissions from landfills, closing landfills, supporting informal waste workers, and adopting sustainable waste practices.
Aligning with the theme “Building Prosperity, Restoring Hope,” the campaign underscores that clean air is crucial for a hopeful future. “Without clean air, there is no future,” Betty emphasized, referring to the importance of youth in shaping that future.
The event featured many young participants, reinforcing that clean air is essential and urgent.
GAYO remains committed to advancing this cause and collaborating with stakeholders to ensure a cleaner, healthier Ghana for all.
Source: www.climatewatchonline.com
