'How did we get here, to be told to go to Rwanda to learn cleanliness?' – Mahama Ayariga quizzes

Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga

Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, has challenged Ghanaians to reclaim the country’s reputation as a trailblazer on the continent by taking collective responsibility for the cleanliness of their communities.

Speaking at the official launch of the Second Ecumenical Convention, in his first official public address since assuming office, Mr Ayariga said he is concerned that Ghana, which once led the continent in several areas, is now being compared with other countries on basic issues such as sanitation.

He said one of his saddest moments is when young Ghanaians call into radio programmes to say, “Go to Rwanda and see.”

“How did we get to a point where we are being asked to go to Rwanda to be taught how to clean our environment?” he questioned.

Mr Ayariga questioned how Ghana, a country that played a pioneering role in Africa’s struggle against colonialism and became the first sub-Saharan African country to gain independence, reached a point where its citizens look to Rwanda for lessons on environmental cleanliness.

The Local Government Minister, however, said the comparison should not be viewed negatively, stressing that Ghana has the capacity to learn, improve and reclaim its position as a leader.

He said Ghanaians deserve cities that reflect the country’s greatness, dignity and respect for one another.

Mr Ayariga therefore called for a shift from complaining about sanitation challenges to becoming part of the solution.

He said the country must move from “let’s wait and see” to “let’s take action,” with individuals, communities, religious bodies, traditional authorities and government working together to create cleaner and healthier environments.