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Story by, Nsor Paul Mensah
In celebration of World Cities Day, the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) of Ghana has emphasized the critical role of food safety and healthy diets in promoting sustainable urban development.
Speaking at the event, Senior Regulatory Officer of FDA Desmond Paa Kwasi Hachman explained that, the UN-initiated World Cities Day aims to draw attention to the various challenges facing rapidly growing cities, particularly in developing countries like Ghana.
"We have seen a significant influx of people migrating from rural areas to urban centers like Accra and Kumasi," "This has created immense pressure on city infrastructure and services, including issues around waste management, food security, and nutrition."
To address these challenges, the FDA highlighted its collaboration with the government of Ghana on the "Healthier Diets for Healthy Lives" initiative. This project involves multiple ministries and aims to implement four key policies to ensure healthier food choices for Ghanaian consumers.
The first policy focuses on full food labeling, which will require clear warning labels on food packaging to empower consumers to make informed decisions. "The idea is to provide easily understandable information so that people know what they are buying and consuming," he explained.
Additionally, the initiative will introduce restrictions on the marketing and advertising of foods high in sugar, salt, and other unhealthy ingredients, particularly those targeting children. The FDA has already successfully implemented similar measures for alcohol products.
The third policy will address food procurement by the government, ensuring that food purchased for programs like the school feeding scheme meets strict safety and nutritional standards. "We want to make sure the food the government buys and serves is fresh, healthy, and nutritious," hee said.
Paa Kwasi Hachman revealed that, the initiative will work to replace sugary beverages and unhealthy snacks with fresh fruits and vegetables in government-catered events and meetings.
By implementing these comprehensive policies, the FDA and the government of Ghana aim to tackle the growing challenges of urban sustainability and promote healthier, more livable cities for all.
On his part, Jacob Johnson Attakpah Zero waste Cities Manager at the event said, The world has recognized that young people are playing a very exceptional role when it comes to working for the climate, when it comes to doing grassroots work, and not just activism, but actual projects that bring into focus the need for us to be able to deal with the climate crisis that we are facing.
He said this year's world Cities Day is showcasing a diverse array of youth-led organizations and innovative solutions that are tackling critical environmental challenges. From composting initiatives to textile waste repurposing projects, these young changemakers are spearheading practical, impactful programs that go beyond traditional activism.
The event also highlights the creative use of technology, art, and culture as tools to raise awareness about the effects of climate change and improper waste management. "People are using different ways - art, culture - to be able to speak to climate, to be able to let people know more about the effects of climate change, the effects of improper waste management," he noted.
Paramount among the featured initiatives is the Cities program, which has been led by a young individual for the past couple of years. This program is a significant part of the Cities Day celebration, demonstrating the power of youth-driven solutions to address the climate crisis.
As the world grapples with the urgent need for climate action, the Cities Day celebration serves as a powerful testament to the innovative spirit and unwavering commitment of young people. Their grassroots efforts and practical solutions offer hope and inspiration in the fight against the climate emergency.