Story By: Jones Anlimah
The Ghana Electronics Servicing Technicians Association (GESTA), has launched its 2024 National E-Waste Collection Campaign with a focus to raise awareness, intensify collection efforts, and promote responsible e-waste management practices across the country.
To this end the President of GESTA, Mr. Andrews Gyan, has called on all sectors of the Ghanaian society, from the media to government institutions and the general public, to join the national drive aimed at tackling the growing e-waste problem while emphasizing the dire environmental and health consequences posed by the improper disposal of electronic waste in the country.
Ghana generates thousands of tons of electronic waste every year, including discarded computers, televisions, mobile phones, and other gadgets. If not properly managed, this waste poses a serious threat to the environment and human health, with hazardous materials such as lead, mercury, and cadmium having the potential to contaminate soil, water, and even food chains.
The launch of the 2024 National E-Waste Collection Campaign coincided with GESTA’s 2024 National Delegates Conference with the theme “Creating Sustainable Wealth and e-waste Management Through Accountable Leadership and Professionalism”.
The National President of the Ghana Electronics Servicing Technicians Association (GESTA), Mr Andrews Gyan, warned of how the release of toxic substances from burning and dumping e-waste can result in air pollution, water contamination, and long-term health impacts on vulnerable persons in the society and made a call to action.
“My fellow Ghanaians, the time to act is now. We must embark on a national crusade to address this growing crisis. That is why GESTA is launching this 2024 National E-Waste Collection Campaign, with the goal of raising awareness, increasing collection efforts, and promoting responsible e-waste management practices across the country”, he said.
He added “We call upon the media, government institutions, traditional authorities, civil society organizations, and the general public to join us in this noble endeavor. Together, we can make Ghana a healthier and more sustainable nation for present and future generations”.
The Chief of Ho Ahoe Togbe Kassa, commended GESTA’s efforts in launching the 2024 National E-Waste Collection Campaign emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility in managing e-waste and protecting the environment for future generations.
“The proliferation of electronic devices have significantly contributed to the economic growth yet with this growth comes the pressing issue of electronic waste or e-waste. We stand at the crossroads where our decision today will shape the future of our environment, our economy and our communities”, Togbe noted.
The Volta Regional Coordinating Director, Mr. Augustus Awity, expressed support for the 2024 National E-Waste Collection Campaign and recognized its importance in addressing environmental and public health concerns.
He highlighted the government’s commitment to partnering the private sector to build a sustainable e-waste management system. “As leaders in the electronics servicing industry, it is our responsibility to adopt practices that prioritize long-term sustainability and ethical conduct. By promoting accountability and professionalism in all our endeavors, we can ensure that our industry thrives while upholding the highest standards of integrity and environmental stewardship”, Mr. Awity remarked.
As the campaign unfolds, GESTA says it remains committed to working with stakeholders to make Ghana a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable nation for future generations.
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