The Ashanti Region on Monday, August 24, had its turn of the nationwide fumigation and disinfection exercise rolled out by Zoomlion Ghana Limited, in partnership with the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs).
The operation, which kicked off early in the morning in the Asafo community in the Oforikrom Municipality, targeted mosquitoes, flies, cockroaches, and other disease-causing pests that thrive in areas affected by flooding and poor sanitation. The intervention also aimed to complement ongoing sanitation efforts and reduce health risks to residents and traders.
In the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) area, the exercise covered multiple locations including Asafo Zion, Korle Gate, Ahamadiya, Moshie Zongo, Buokurom MA School, Amakom market, Johovah Shaman sanitation site, and Akotia line. Additionally, the KMA team extended operations to Abrepo, Bantama, Santasi Zongo, Wamase, and Fankyene Bra, ensuring broad coverage across the metropolis.
Addressing the media, the Ashanti Regional Manager of Zoomlion Ghana Limited, Ernest Osei, stressed the importance of controlling these pests to create a healthier environment. He entreated residents in the region to support the initiative through regular cleaning and proper waste disposal.
For his part, the District Manager of Zoomlion Ghana Limited, Oforikrom, Usif Irani, stressed that fumigation was necessary to control harmful insects and pests within the Asafo community and contribute to improving environmental sanitation. He also urged residents to cooperate with the Zoomlion teams and help maintain clean surroundings after the exercise, stressing that the effectiveness of the intervention would depend largely on the continued support of community members.
Many residents and traders in the Asafo community welcomed the intervention by Zoomlion. Mr. Osei Kofi, a resident, was upbeat that it would reduce persistent pest problems and curb disease transmission. A food seller, Madam Mary Ankamah, noted its particular value to traders, as flies can contaminate food and endanger both sellers and buyers. Another trader, Madam Ama Gyamfua, urged proper sanitation and rubbish disposal post-exercise.
A Unit Committee Member, Oforikrom, Paa Solo, called on residents to clear gutters and remove stagnant water to prevent mosquito breeding. According to him, "keep our environs clean should be a priority for all of us."
For his part, the Regional Environmental Officer, David Oppong Darko, added that fumigation must be backed by responsible waste management and regular cleaning.
Stakeholders unanimously agreed that sustained community participation is essential to preserve a safe and healthy environment for all.
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