Growing concerns over widespread lead poisoning in parts of Ghana have prompted urgent calls for action from health officials and environmental experts. At the launch of the Coalition Against Lead Pollution Project in Prampram, experts highlighted the devastating effects of lead exposure, especially on children and pregnant women.
Dr. Patience Ami Mamattah, Ningo Prampram Municipal Health Director, warned of the long-term impact of lead contamination, citing new research by environmental NGO Pure Earth and its partners. The study, which tested 405 children, found that nearly 60% had dangerously high levels of lead in their blood.
“Exposure from sources like used car batteries, smelting, and open burning is extremely harmful, especially to children and pregnant women. We must act urgently,” said Dr. Mamattah.
According to the findings, lead poisoning causes irreversible damage to vital organs, including the brain, kidneys, and liver. In children, even low levels of exposure can lead to developmental delays, learning difficulties, and other neurological issues.
Dr. Esther Priscilla Biamah Dan Quansah, Health Director for the Kpone Katamanso Municipality, called for a more proactive approach, urging health authorities to treat children already affected—just as awareness campaigns are being prioritized.
“We must match education efforts with treatment. These children need urgent medical attention,” she said.
Esmond Wisdom Quansah, Country Director of Pure Earth, emphasized that collaboration across sectors is essential to mitigating the crisis.
“This issue cannot be tackled in silos. We need stronger cooperation between health professionals, environmental regulators, and local governments,” he stated.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also expressed concern. Letitia Abra-Kom Nyaaba, Acting Director of the Ghana National Cleaner Production Centre, noted that unsafe recycling practices and poor waste handling are key contributors to lead exposure.
“Proper disposal and recycling of lead-based materials—especially used batteries—can drastically reduce the risk,” she said.
The launch event brought together officials from the Ningo Prampram and Kpone Katamanso Municipal Assemblies, schoolchildren, and civil society organizations.
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