An initiative led by People’s Dialogue on Human Settlement, in partnership with the Clean Air Fund, is addressing the pressing issue of air pollution in Ghana.
The project, which focuses on the health impacts of air pollution in marginalized communities, was launched with a field study and community education campaign in Tema, particularly in Manhian.
Dr. Faisal Tikuma Abdallah, a medical doctor at the University of Ghana Medical Centre and public health consultant for People’s Dialogue, explained the severity of air pollution and its underrepresentation in global and local health interventions.
“Air pollution kills more than 8 million people worldwide every year, including over 28,000 in Ghana. These numbers surpass deaths from malaria and HIV combined, yet the issue has not received the attention it deserves,” he stated.
The project aims to collect data on air pollution’s effects, particularly in urban areas where vulnerable communities face disproportionate risks. Dr. Abdallah highlighted that communities like Tema Manhian, which rely on activities such as fish smoking, are especially affected due to high levels of smoke exposure.
“Our goal is to use this data to drive policy changes and improve air quality for communities like Taman and Newtown, and Ghana as a whole,” he added.
A Community-Centric Approach
In addition to data collection, the project emphasizes community education and involvement. It engages people across all age groups, including schoolchildren, to foster awareness and promote collective action. Joshua Teye Aguda, Assembly Member for the Dadeagbo electoral area, commended the initiative for shedding light on the hazards of air pollution.
“Fish smoking is our main source of livelihood, but it generates significant smoke, which poses serious health risks. This program has educated us on the dangers and given us a path forward to improve our environment,” he said.
The Assembly Member pledged to champion awareness and advocate for better practices in the community.
A Hidden Public Health Crisis
Air pollution is often referred to as a silent pandemic, causing widespread health issues that have gone unnoticed. Dr. Abdallah compared its impact to other health crises, noting that despite being a leading cause of death, air pollution lacks the global attention given to malaria or HIV.
The project aligns with broader goals to improve public health by creating a cleaner, healthier environment. Dr. Abdallah emphasized the need for collaborative efforts:
“By involving everyone—youth, elders, and policymakers—we can turn awareness into action and make a lasting impact on air quality and health outcomes.”
The Way Forward
As the project progresses, its findings are expected to inform policies and strategies to address air pollution in urban areas and vulnerable communities. Organizers hope that this initiative will serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges.
For now, the efforts in Tema represent a critical step toward mitigating air pollution’s impact and ensuring a healthier future for all Ghanaians.
