It is shameful to see animals roaming the streets of the capital, Accra, indiscriminately in this 21st Century. The streets of Accra and other preserved vegetations in the capital city have become grazing fields for livestock. These livestock are destroying the environment and causing other havoc, with the city authorities doing very little about the situation. These animals are seen grazing on green grasses without any herdsmen guiding them.
As we try to brand Accra, as the official gateway to the West Africa sub-region, it is worrying that we allow livestock to roam the streets and cause havoc, with the authorities doing nothing about it, and the situation keeps deteriorating.
It is particularly common in areas like the Tetteh Quarshie Interchange, Dzorwulu, Roman Ridge, Shiashie, East Legon, Airport Residential, Achimota and its environs. These are areas considered as prestigious in the national capital, since they host the large infrastructure, institutions and luxurious hotels in the country.
It is crucial for the assemblies to recognise the potential dangers and address the issue promptly. We must bear in mind that the city’s reputation, public safety, and the welfare of both humans, especially children walking to and from school, and animals are at stake.
The Chronicle strongly bemoans that the presence of live animals on our streets pose a significant threat to public safety. Vehicles maneuvering through crowded streets are forced to navigate around these unexpected obstacles, increasing the risk of accidents.
Pedestrians, too, face potential harm as they attempt to navigate through bustling streets teeming with animals. The potential for injury, both to humans and animals, cannot be ignored.
Beyond the immediate safety concerns, the presence of cattle roaming freely on our streets can have detrimental effects on public infrastructure. Animals that are left to roam can cause extensive damage to gardens, parks and other public spaces undoing the hard work and resources invested in maintaining these areas for aesthetic value and the public’s enjoyment. Moreover, the cleanliness and hygiene of our streets are compromised when animal waste is left unattended to.
To tackle this issue effectively, it is crucial for the various Municipal Assemblies to take immediate action. Educating the public about the consequences of allowing animals to roam freely is essential. Awareness campaigns can help individuals understand the risks and encourage them to take proper responsibility for their goats, sheep and cattle.
Also, the need for enforcement of existing animal control laws should be intensified. Stray animals should be promptly captured and placed under the care of animal shelters or rescue organisations, where they can receive proper attention and care.
Implementing very strict penalties, including fines, for herdsmen who allow their animals to roam freely can act as a deterrent. This, combined with increased monitoring and enforcement, will encourage responsible ownership of these animals.
The presence of live animals roaming freely in the streets of our capital city demands immediate attention. It is crucial for authorities to recognise the potential risks to public safety and the damage to public infrastructure. By adopting a comprehensive approach that includes public awareness, stricter animal control measures, collaboration with animal welfare organisations and the implementation of fines and penalties, we can address this issue effectively.
