The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) says measures have been taken to procure 3 marine waste-collecting vessels to aid in clearing the filth at Dambai harbour in the Oti Region. 

Dambai harbour is one of the busiest landing beaches. It serves as a transit point between the southern and northern part of Ghana, contributing to the large amounts of waste generated at the landing beach.

According to the Dambai Lakeside Assembly Member, Essel Jonas, this poses a great threat to the marine environment and aquaculture since traders and residents are unable to clear the land themselves.

Essel Jonas said this while speaking to Joy News during a 3-day cleanup and sensitization exercise on hygienic practices in the Volta and Oti Regions.

“The filth here is disgusting. As an assemblyman, I try to periodically educate the folks here to tidy up the place from time to time.

“It is becoming a challenge because most of them complain that there are Zoomlion workers who are supposed to do the clean up," he said.

This informed the initiative of the GMA to protect the marine environment by ensuring the country's water bodies are clean and hygienic. 

The Deputy Director of Projects, Monitoring and Evaluation of the Ghana Maritime Authority, Dr. Richard Lartey, disclosed that the waste-collecting vessels would increase the production of healthy fishes and other marine products. 

“As an Authority we are procuring what we call trash skimmer vessels. They are vessels used to collect rubbish that has actually found its way into water bodies.

“From time to time our marine surveyors and our officials will come here and not only this place but all other beaches in the country to ensure that they are all clean."

He added that the Authority will engage in educational exercises so that the officials stationed at the harbour will continuously sensitize the people to keep the place clean to ensure sustainability.