The Teshie landing beach in Accra, Ghana, bore witness to a collaborative clean-up initiative on Friday, July 4, 2025, spearheaded by Blessed Care International Foundation, a non-governmental organization, and the Ledzokuku Municipal Assembly (LEKMA). This joint effort, a testament to the organizations’ shared commitment to community development and environmental sustainability, aimed at enhancing the well-being of the local fishing community while contributing to the broader realization of the Sustainable Development Goals. The initiative focused on ridding the beach of accumulated debris, plastic waste, and other refuse, preventing these pollutants from re-entering the ocean and causing further ecological harm. The collaborative nature of the project underscored the power of partnerships in achieving sustainable community development.
The clean-up exercise served as a springboard for a broader discussion on hygiene and sanitation within the fishing community. Hon. Israel Adjetey Otchwenmah, the Municipal Chief Executive of LEKMA, addressed the assembled fisherfolk after the event, emphasizing the critical role of hygiene practices in maintaining a healthy and productive coastal environment. He highlighted the planned initiatives of the assembly’s sanitation and health department, which included community engagement programs focused on health practices, education, and sanitation improvement. This proactive approach signifies the local government’s commitment to empowering the community with the knowledge and resources necessary for sustainable environmental management. The Municipal Chief Executive also commended Blessed Care Foundation for their consistent efforts in spearheading positive change within the community and pledged ongoing support for their initiatives.
Isaac Bortey, the Director of Blessed Care Foundation, underscored the vital importance of collective action in protecting coastal ecosystems, particularly within fishing communities. He elaborated on the various community-focused programs implemented by the foundation, which encompassed health education, sanitation sensitization, and educational support initiatives designed to foster a sustainable lifestyle among community members. These programs reflect a holistic approach to community development, recognizing the interconnectedness of environmental health, education, and economic well-being. Mr. Bortey also outlined the Foundation’s ambitious plans for future expansion, including extending support to other regions and communities through the donation of educational materials to schools and providing relief items to disaster-affected areas, such as the victims of the Keta dam spillage. This commitment to expanding their reach exemplifies the Foundation’s dedication to addressing critical needs across wider geographical areas.
The head of the fishermen, Nii Abossey III (Nii Wolei ats3), echoed the call for sustained cleanliness within the community, stressing the critical link between a healthy environment and the well-being of the fisherfolk. He specifically addressed the youth engaged in fishing, urging them to adopt and maintain responsible hygiene practices along the beaches. His direct appeal to the younger generation highlights the importance of instilling sustainable practices early on, ensuring the long-term health and viability of the fishing community and the coastal environment. The collective voices of the Municipal Chief Executive, the Foundation Director, and the head of the fishermen demonstrate a unified front in advocating for environmental responsibility and community health.
The clean-up event drew a diverse group of participants, further underscoring the community-wide impact of the initiative. Attendees included the Municipal Coordinating Director, members of the health and sanitation department, volunteers from various backgrounds, members of the local fishing community, and other stakeholders. This broad representation signifies a shared investment in the well-being of the community and demonstrates the power of collaborative action in driving positive change. The presence of government officials, community leaders, and volunteers highlights the collective responsibility in addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable practices.
The collaborative clean-up exercise at the Teshie landing beach exemplifies a multi-faceted approach to community development, encompassing environmental protection, health education, and community empowerment. The partnership between Blessed Care International Foundation and the Ledzokuku Municipal Assembly demonstrates the synergistic potential of collaborative efforts in driving sustainable change. The active participation of the local fishing community, including its leadership and youth, highlights the sense of ownership and shared responsibility in maintaining a healthy and thriving coastal environment. This initiative serves as a model for future community-based projects, demonstrating the positive impact that can be achieved through collaborative action, education, and a commitment to sustainable practices. The emphasis on long-term solutions, such as education and sanitation improvements, underscores the dedication to creating a lasting positive impact on the Teshie community and its environment.
