EPA proposes naming Ghana’s plastics law after late Murtala Mohammed

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has proposed that Ghana's upcoming plastics legislation be named in honour of the late Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, as a lasting tribute to his commitment to environmental protection and the fight against plastic pollution.

The proposal comes as the EPA finalises legislation to strengthen the government's planned ban on single-use plastics, including Styrofoam food containers, which is expected to take effect in January 2027.

Speaking on Citi FM, the EPA's Deputy Chief Executive Officer in charge of Operations, Prof Michael Ayamga-Adongo, appealed to President John Dramani Mahama and Parliament to immortalise the late minister by naming the proposed law after him.

According to Prof Ayamga-Adongo, Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed was deeply passionate about reducing plastic waste and championed policies aimed at protecting Ghana's environment during his tenure.

We are announcing the ban on Styrofoam from January next year, and we are in the process of developing legislation to reinforce the ban on single-use plastics going forward," he said.

He explained that dedicating the legislation to the late minister would acknowledge his significant contribution to environmental sustainability and ensure that his legacy continues to inspire future generations.

I am proposing to Members of Parliament that we name this legislation after our late colleague, Hon. Dr. Murtala Mohammed. If we name this legislation the Murtala Mohammed Law on Plastics in Ghana, it will go a long way in acknowledging his efforts to end plastic pollution in Ghana. That cause was very dear to him," Prof Ayamga-Adongo stated.

The proposed legislation is intended to provide the legal framework needed to enforce Ghana's planned nationwide ban on single-use plastics.

Among the products expected to be affected are Styrofoam food containers, which have long been identified as a major contributor to plastic pollution due to their widespread use and difficulty in recycling.

The EPA believes the legislation will strengthen enforcement efforts, encourage environmentally friendly alternatives and support Ghana's broader commitment to sustainable waste management and environmental conservation.

Prof Ayamga-Adongo said naming the law after Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed would not only preserve his memory but also reinforce the importance of protecting Ghana's natural environment.

He noted that the late minister consistently advocated stronger measures against plastic pollution and supported initiatives aimed at promoting cleaner communities and safeguarding ecosystems.

Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed was among eight people who lost their lives on August 6, 2025, when a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter crashed in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region while travelling on official duty to launch the government's Cooperative Mining Initiative, an anti-illegal mining programme.

Others who died in the crash included Defence Minister Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, former Ashanti Regional Minister Dr Samuel Sarpong, former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, and three Ghana Armed Forces personnel: Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

On August 6, 2026, government officials, bereaved families, religious leaders and members of the public gathered at a National Interfaith Memorial Service to commemorate the first anniversary of the tragedy and honour the lives, dedication and sacrifices of the eight victims.

If approved by Parliament, the proposed plastics legislation would become both a significant environmental policy and a permanent tribute to one of Ghana's leading advocates for environmental protection.