President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghanaians to demonstrate greater responsibility toward sanitation after a viral video highlighted unhygienic conditions at Tema New Town.
The video, recorded and shared by environmental advocacy group Buz Stop Boys, showed fish being dried close to piles of refuse. The footage quickly attracted widespread attention on social media and generated public concern about sanitation and food safety.
Speaking during the Men’s Ministry Day celebration at the Ringway Gospel Centre Assemblies of God Church in Accra, President Mahama said the video should encourage citizens to work on their role in keeping communities clean and healthy.
He stressed that maintaining a healthy environment is a shared responsibility and should not rest solely on government institutions.
According to the President, poor sanitation practices continue to strike serious risks to public health and the environment. He urged residents to stop disposing of plastic waste, sachet water wrappers and other rubbish into drains and open spaces.
Mahama noted that blocked drains contribute significantly to flooding during the rainy season. He said cleaner communities would help reduce environmental hazards while improving public health.
The President also encouraged Ghanaians to match their words with meaningful action. Referring to the biblical passage James 2:17, he said genuine commitment to national development must be reflected in everyday behaviour.
The viral footage has activated discussions about sanitation standards in coastal communities and food handling practices. Many social media users called for stronger enforcement of public health regulations, while others urged local authorities to improve waste collection and environmental management.
Environmental groups have repeatedly warned that poor waste disposal threatens public health, marine ecosystems and local livelihoods. They continue to advocate stronger collaboration between government agencies, local assemblies and residents to improve sanitation across the country.
Ghana has introduced several initiatives to improve environmental cleanliness, including periodic national sanitation campaigns. However, experts say lasting progress will depend on consistent public participation, stronger enforcement of sanitation laws and sustained investment in waste management infrastructure.
The President’s remarks reinforce ongoing calls for individuals, businesses and local communities to work together in protecting public spaces and promoting healthier living conditions.
