There is a need to establish well-defined citizen watchdog committees in all our neighbourhoods to support government directives and collaborate with the flood task force in addressing the perennial flooding that has destroyed lives and property in recent years.
The criticism on various media platforms condemning the President for using a helicopter to assess the extent of the devastation in Accra should not be politicised. Instead, all of us must rekindle a renewed spirit of nationalism and work together to confront this social challenge, which is largely driven by our collective neglect of civic responsibility.
Moses Klomega member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Communication Bureau for Tema West, made this call during a panel discussion on Ahotor FM 92.3’s Adekyee Mu Nsem morning show, hosted by Citizen Kofi Owusu in Accra.
He reiterated that the newly established flood task force by the President cannot win the fight against flooding on its own. Rather, every citizen must respond to this national call by playing an active role in protecting the environment and ensuring that the right measures are taken to prevent future disasters.
He urged Ghanaians to depoliticise the demolition of structures built on waterways and support efforts to restore natural water channels to reduce the risk of flooding, particularly in major cities across the country.
Referring to the heavy rainfall of July 1, which caused widespread destruction and loss of lives across several regions, Mr. Klomega stressed that the tragedy should serve as a wake-up call. He said citizens must place the national interest above partisan considerations and become active participants in safeguarding their communities.
He further noted that demolishing structures on waterways alone will not solve the flooding problem. Addressing the challenge also requires responsible civic behaviour, a change in public attitudes, strict adherence to sanitation laws, and an end to the indiscriminate dumping of refuse into gutters and waterways.
Mr. Klomega also highlighted the shortage of designated waste disposal sites as a major challenge. With rapid population growth placing increasing pressure on urban centres, he called on both government and citizens to work together to maintain a clean environment and build more resilient communities.
Story By: Alexander Kukah.
