A passionate local volunteer, Mr Gilbert Addai, has launched a one-man clean-up crusade along the banks of the River Oti in a determined effort to help combat rising typhoid cases in Dambai.
Armed with shovels, gloves, brooms and rakes, Mr Addai has begun targeting major waste-prone areas along the river under his self-initiated campaign, “Clean Oti, Save Lives.” The River Oti runs through Dambai, the capital of the Oti Region, which has been the hardest hit by the outbreak.
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Health officials report that more than 22,000 typhoid cases have been confirmed this year, with Dambai alone recording over 12,000. The situation has heightened concerns about sanitation, water contamination and poor waste disposal practices in the area.
Speaking to the journalist, Mr. Addai said his motivation comes from a deep sense of responsibility and love for his community. “I grew up here, my family lives here, my friends live here, if I cannot protect my community, who will?” he said.
He appealed for logistical support from benevolent groups, government agencies and individuals to sustain and expand his clean-up efforts.
The Ghana Health Service continues to work to contain the outbreak, but community-led initiatives such as Mr Addai’s are viewed as critical in preventing further spread of the disease.
Some travelers and commuters who use the River Oti, interacted with reporters commended his dedication and encouraged other residents to join the campaign to keep the community clean and safe.
