While it may appear at first that goldsmiths are burning in order to create jewelry for sale, a closer look at the smoke billowing into the sky exposes a disturbing truth.
In addition to cars, fish mongers also contribute to air pollution, although this is sometimes disregarded. However, residents of Korle-Boode, a suburb of Jamestown, are keenly aware of the disastrous impact of these actions on their surroundings.
Some locals have openly voiced their concerns about how this pollution is hurting their health, despite the fish mongers themselves being reluctant to talk about the matter.
The Korle-Boode native Sheriff describes the health effects of the smoke: “I got an eye condition because of the frequent smoke getting in my eyes.” I start crying when I use my phone for extended periods of time, as though I’ve been physically abused. I usually have eye drops on hand because the discomfort and itching get worse if I don’t use them for a long.
Sheriff believes that since Korle-Boode is his only home, he must endure these effects despite them.
Other residents also lamented the impact of the fishmongers’ activities on their well-being. Theresah, a resident of Korle-Boode, emphasized the dangers of being constantly exposed to the smoke: “Whether you are a schoolgirl or a worker, you inhale smoke wherever you go. I feel the people engaged in this activity have no alternative employment, so no matter the harm it causes them, they will continue because it is their livelihood. I urge the government to find them an alternative location, as we are also suffering.”
In Ghana, it is up to us all to fight this enemy, who is silent and invisible. Cleaner air and a better environment could be achieved by both individual and governmental efforts.
