The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Akatsi South in the Volta Region, Mr. Daniel Dagba, has spearheaded a comprehensive sanitation drive since assuming office on May 5, 2025, achieving significant progress in addressing long-standing sanitation challenges within the municipality. His initial priority focused on clearing accumulated refuse, particularly the substantial waste build-up in the Akatsi market, a task that required two weeks of intensive effort. This initial clean-up operation extended to the Habaglima dumping site, effectively decongesting the overflowing area. The MCE’s commitment to a cleaner environment has resulted in a visibly improved sanitation landscape in key areas like the market and major gutters, including those stretching from Accra Station to the Municipal Hospital.
Building on these initial successes, Mr. Dagba emphasized the importance of sustained efforts and ongoing monitoring. He highlighted the collaboration between the Assembly and the Municipal Health Directorate, a partnership crucial for maintaining improved sanitation practices, especially within market areas. This collaborative approach involves strategic deployment of sanitation officers and task forces at critical points to curb indiscriminate waste disposal, a common practice contributing to the sanitation challenges. The aim is to proactively address sanitation issues rather than reactively responding to accumulated waste. This proactive strategy involves community engagement and sensitization, reminding residents of their responsibility in maintaining a clean environment.
To further bolster these efforts, the Assembly has re-energized the National Sanitation Day initiative. Two such days have been organized since Mr. Dagba took office, including one specifically focused on the market area. These focused sanitation drives are intended to not only clean public spaces but also to instill a sense of collective responsibility among residents. The MCE underscored the importance of community participation and the role of Assembly Members in enforcing local sanitation by-laws. This includes the possibility of fines for residents who fail to participate in National Sanitation Day activities. This enforcement mechanism is designed to encourage broader compliance and participation in community-wide sanitation efforts.
The MCE reported positive early results from this multifaceted approach, noting an increase in resident compliance with sanitation regulations. This suggests a growing awareness and acceptance of the importance of maintaining a clean environment. He attributed this positive shift to a combination of proactive measures, community engagement, and the enforcement of by-laws. The goal is to create a self-sustaining culture of cleanliness within the municipality, where residents actively participate in maintaining a healthy environment. This long-term vision relies on fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility among community members.
Mr. Dagba emphasized the link between cleanliness and a healthy environment, urging residents to actively support the Assembly’s efforts. He reiterated the commitment of his administration to improving the overall living conditions of residents through enhanced public health measures, placing sanitation as a key component of this broader objective. The continuation of monthly National Sanitation Day activities, strategically scheduled before market days to maximize community involvement, further underscores this commitment. This regular schedule aims to embed sanitation practices into the routine of the community, making cleanliness a regular and expected activity.
The long-term success of these initiatives depends on continued community participation and the consistent enforcement of regulations. By combining immediate action, strategic planning, and community engagement, the MCE aims to create a lasting impact on the sanitation landscape of Akatsi South. The progress achieved so far represents a significant step towards a cleaner and healthier environment for all residents. This comprehensive strategy demonstrates a commitment to not just cleaning the municipality but also to fostering a culture of cleanliness and responsibility among its residents. The goal is to create a sustainable system where maintaining a clean and healthy environment is an ingrained community practice.
