The Bono Regional Environmental Health Directorate has highlighted significant challenges hindering its efforts to achieve a hygienic environment.
According to the Environmental Health Director, Ms. Medina Doku, financial constraints and the lack of an administrative vehicle have impeded the directorate’s core mandate, despite its efforts to engage in public education and enforcement.
Ms. Doku also lamented the interference from politicians and political leaders, who often prevent offenders from being prosecuted.
She noted that these influencers frequently demand the immediate release of individuals who flout environmental laws, putting environmental officers at risk.
The directorate’s efforts aim to mitigate the risk of cholera and other environmental health issues, but support is needed to overcome the challenges and effectively enforce environmental laws.
The Environmental health director made the call when Bono Regional Ghana Health Service engaged the media in Suhyenso to share ideas on tackling looming cholera outbreak.
Despite these challenges, the Environmental Health Directorate has organized several clean-up exercises to promote a hygienic environment.
Ms. Doku revealed plans to conduct monitoring operations in all districts to raise awareness about the looming danger of cholera.
She said some districts have already taken proactive steps, including health screenings for food vendors and house-to-house inspections, as part of their law enforcement process.
