The former Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Prof. Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, has called on President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to respond to the growing demands from various groups and labour unions to halt the ongoing destruction of Ghana’s forest reserves and water bodies.
Speaking passionately on the matter, he urged the President to take immediate action to protect the environment.
Prof. Frimpong-Boateng made this call during a grand durbar held to mark the climax of the Asogli Yam Festival in Ho, on Saturday. In his speech, he emphasized the need for the President to listen to the concerns raised by citizens, civil society organizations (CSOs), professionals, academics, research institutions, and trade unions regarding the degradation of natural resources.
“Heed the call of citizens, CSOs, professionals, academics, research institutions, and trade unions to bring an end to the destruction of our forests, water bodies, and associated biodiversity,” Prof. Frimpong-Boateng urged.
Expressing deep concern about the future of the nation, he pointed out that the ongoing destruction of nature could have dire consequences for Ghana’s existence. “The very existence and future of Ghana are very much at stake, and Mr. President, I know you care… Disobedience and destruction of nature cannot be endured for too long,” he stated.
In addition to his environmental appeal, Prof. Frimpong-Boateng took the opportunity to encourage the youth of Ghana to rise to the challenge and hold their leaders accountable for the issues facing the country. He also called on the next government to prioritize both job creation and the restoration of the environment as key areas for national development.
The grand durbar, which marked the climax of this year’s Asogli Yam Festival, was filled with vibrant cultural displays. Chiefs of the Asogli State sat in state as the people, dressed in colourful traditional attire, celebrated with songs and dances in honor of their leaders. The event, as is customary, was a gathering point for various dignitaries from across the country and beyond.
The Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State, Togbe Afede XIV, also addressed the gathering, directing his message to the incoming government. He called for a reversal of negative trends currently affecting the country, in order to promote sustainable growth and development. In his address, Togbe Afede also stressed the importance of creating the necessary conditions to ensure free and fair elections in the upcoming polls.
The Asogli Yam Festival, a significant cultural event, once again brought together people from various walks of life to celebrate unity and tradition, while also serving as a platform for the discussion of pressing national issues, such as environmental protection and governance.
