Ketu North MP partners EPA to bring environmental services closer to residents

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has opened its first district office in Dzodze. This city is the capital of Ketu North Municipality in the Volta Region. The new office aims to improve environmental governance at the local level.

This initiative is part of a larger effort to decentralise EPA operations. It will enhance access to important environmental services. The project was made possible through a partnership with MP Eric Edem Agbana.

At the inauguration, EPA CEO Professor Nana Ama Klutse spoke about expanding their reach. She noted that financial constraints had previously limited their ability to open district offices. “Hon. Eric Edem Agbana approached us with a clear vision,” she said.

Prof Klutse explained that the Dzodze office will help residents obtain environmental permits easily. Previously, this process was burdensome for local businesses. “Access to EPA services has been a challenge for many entrepreneurs here,” she added.

She also warned about unregulated sand winning in the region, calling it an environmental threat. “If sand winning is allowed, it must be done responsibly under EPA supervision,” she urged residents.

MP Agbana emphasized his commitment to tackling environmental issues in Ketu North. He pointed out that uncontrolled sand winning poses significant challenges there. “We must take this issue seriously,” he stated.

He called for regulatory oversight and public support for the EPA’s work. “That’s why I supported opening this office—to tackle our environmental challenges responsibly,” he said.

The Dzodze office will strengthen regulatory enforcement and promote community outreach. It will focus on environmental education and sustainable practices as well. Local initiatives on waste management and resource conservation will also be facilitated.

In her closing remarks, Prof Klutse encouraged residents to use the new EPA services fully. She stressed that collaboration is key to achieving environmental goals. “Together, we can build a cleaner and safer environment for ourselves and future generations,” she concluded.

The Dzodze office is the first district-level branch under the EPA's decentralisation strategy. It serves as a model for future expansions across Ghana's 261 Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs).