The Ghana Electronics Servicing Technicians’ Association (GESTA) launched a National E-Waste Management Campaign in Ho, the Volta Regional Capital, on Wednesday, the 11th of September.
Speaking at the event the president of the association, Mr. Andrews Gyan, said the campaign is a clarion call to address one of the most pressing environmental and health challenges facing the country with the goal of raising awareness, increasing collection efforts, and promoting responsible e-waste management practices across the country.
According to Mr. Gyan “Every year, Ghana generates thousands of tons of e-waste, ranging from discarded computers, televisions, mobile phones, and other electronic gadgets, which if not properly managed, poses a severe threat to our environment and the health of Ghanaians” The proliferation of electronic waste, or e-waste, has become a growing concern that we can no longer afford to ignore.
The hazardous materials contained in e-waste, such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, can seep into our soil, contaminate our water sources, and even enter the food chain. The improper disposal and recycling of e-waste can lead to the release of these toxic substances, which can have devastating effects on the health of our communities, especially our children and the most vulnerable.”
He, therefore, called on its members to embark on a national crusade to address the growing crisis. He also called on the media, government institutions, traditional authorities, civil society organizations, and the general public to join in this noble endeavour. “Together, we can make Ghana a healthier and more sustainable nation for present and future generations.” Said the Gesta president.
The guest speaker, Torgbe Kojo Kassa II, Chief of Ho
Ahoe, emphasized the critical role of sustainable practices in managing electronic waste and its broader impact on economic and environmental health. He urged professionals to commit to accountability and leverage their expertise to drive meaningful change. “Every decision we make today impacts our wealth tomorrow,” the chief stated, highlighting the connection between sustainability and future prosperity. He also called for a collective effort to ensure that economic growth is aligned with environmental stewardship, stressing the importance of integrating these principles into everyday decision-making.
The Volta Regional Minister, Dr. Yaw Archibald Letsa, who was represented by the Director of the Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC), Mr. Augustus Awiti, underscored the importance of maintenance and repair of electronics in the reduction of waste and guarantee of sustainability while concurrently creating wealth for individuals, communities and the nation.
He also entreated members of GESTA to live up to the responsibility of upholding the highest standards of professionalism by keeping themselves abreast with the latest technological advancements, adhering to ethical guidelines, and continuously improving their skills.
He continued by affirming the Government’s commitment to supporting GESTA in its efforts to create sustainable wealth and effectively manage e-waste while he urged delegates to collaborate to promote best practices, innovation, and synergy in the electronics servicing industry, which would ensure a brighter and cleaner future for all.
Mr Andrews Gyan ended his speech by spelling out a roadmap which includes having collection centres, getting a license from EPA, clearing every waste item in the shops of members, creating a sustainable world, and letting “ideas”, the slogan of the team, translate into results.
By Desmond Tinana
