EPA Bolsters Operations with 45 New Vehicles

Accra, Ghana – In a move to enhance its operational capabilities, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Ghana has recently acquired 45 new vehicles. These vehicles are specifically tailored for compliance, monitoring, and investigative tasks, crucial for maintaining environmental standards in the country.

According to Ghana News Agency, Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovations, who commissioned the vehicles on behalf of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the EPA has transitioned from being an advisory body to a more active enforcement agency. He highlighted that the EPA’s role has expanded from offering advice and coordination on environmental matters to implementing and enforcing regulations. Dr. Afriyie revealed that a bill is currently before the Ghanaian Parliament that, if passed, would significantly enhance the EPA’s powers, emphasizing the increasing importance of environmental issues.

He urged the EPA staff to make efficient use of the new fleet, asserting that these vehicles would bolster the agency’s enforcement mechanisms. However, he cautioned them against overstepping their legal boundaries, emphasizing the need for lawful conduct even with enhanced capabilities.

Professor Kwasi Appeaning Addo, the Board Chair of the EPA, outlined the strategic distribution of the vehicles across Ghana. He explained that the 45 vehicles have been allocated to every regional office of the EPA, with a particular focus on areas with pressing environmental challenges. This includes four area offices in Kasoa, Dunkwa-On-Offin, Akim Oda, and Obuasi, each equipped with vehicles to enhance their operational reach. Additionally, two vehicles have been allocated to each of the regional offices in Greater Accra West, Amasaman, and the Ashanti Region, recognizing the critical environmental concerns in these areas.

The Board Chair emphasized that this distribution is tailored to ensure that the EPA’s presence and influence are felt in regions with significant environmental issues. He highlighted the importance of these vehicles, not just as a means of transportation, but as a symbol of the EPA’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainability. He concluded by urging the EPA team to embrace this opportunity to create a healthier and more sustainable future for generations to come.