Preventing floods starts with responsible sanitation – Prof Opoku-Agyemang

Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has called on Ghanaians to adopt responsible sanitation practices, warning that indiscriminate waste disposal remains one of the major causes of flooding and environmental degradation across the country.

Speaking during a community clean-up exercise in Nungua as part of the government's ongoing National Clean-up Exercise, the Vice President stressed that many of Ghana's recurring flooding challenges are largely the result of human activities rather than natural occurrences alone.

According to her, while heavy rainfall is unavoidable, irresponsible environmental practices such as dumping refuse into drains and waterways significantly worsen the impact of floods, causing widespread destruction to lives, homes and public infrastructure.

"We are here because something has gone wrong," Prof. Opoku-Agyemang told journalists.

"A lot of it is something that you and I have caused. We know that nature will do its own thing, but sometimes we also contribute negatively to the outcomes."

She explained that clogged drains prevent the free flow of rainwater, forcing water into homes and communities that may not have contributed to the problem.

"There are times when even the person who suffers may not necessarily have been the one who caused the damage. When we throw garbage into our drains, maybe that is the reason why somebody's house is finally flooded because we are blocking the water from taking its natural course," she said.

The Vice President urged citizens to recognise that flood prevention begins with personal responsibility, encouraging every Ghanaian to dispose of waste properly and protect public drainage systems.

She noted that national sanitation cannot be achieved through government interventions alone, stressing that lasting solutions require sustained behavioural change and active community participation.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang said the nationwide clean-up campaign should not be viewed as a one-off exercise but as a reminder that environmental cleanliness is a shared responsibility that demands continuous commitment from individuals, households, businesses and local communities.

"We all know the right things. We don't need any sermon. We know. Let's do the right things and protect each other and protect our country," she urged.

The Vice President also expressed appreciation to residents, volunteers and community groups who participated in the clean-up exercise, describing their contribution as a strong demonstration of patriotism, civic responsibility and community spirit.

"I want to thank you all for coming out to help because there's a time we should all show love," she said.

The National Clean-up Exercise was initiated by the government following the recent floods that affected several regions across Ghana. The campaign focuses on clearing choked drains, removing refuse from public spaces, desilting waterways and promoting proper sanitation practices to reduce the risk of future flooding and disease outbreaks.

Government has encouraged citizens, institutions, businesses and local authorities to sustain environmental cleanliness beyond the exercise to help build cleaner, healthier and more resilient communities across the country.