Binduri Naaba urges EPA to prosecute violators of upcoming Styrofoam ban

The Binduri Naaba, Alhaji Akorlbila Agetwin Robert, has called on the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) to ensure strict enforcement of the impending nationwide ban on Styrofoam and single-use plastics. Speaking at an EPA stakeholder engagement in Bolgatanga on October 28, 2026, the traditional ruler emphasized that the policy must be supported by rigorous legal action against violators to effectively combat environmental pollution. The ban is scheduled to take effect across Ghana on January 1, 2027.

During the engagement, the Naaba commended the administration of President John Dramani Mahama for initiating the ban, describing it as a vital step toward environmental sustainability. However, he cautioned that public education alone would not be enough to ensure compliance. He argued that while awareness campaigns are necessary, they must be paired with the prosecution of offenders to demonstrate the government's commitment to the new regulations. According to the traditional leader, strict penalties are required to change public behavior and protect the ecosystem from the hazards of non-biodegradable waste.

The EPA is currently conducting a series of awareness campaigns and stakeholder engagements across northern Ghana and the rest of the country to prepare businesses and the public for the transition. These sessions aim to inform citizens about the environmental impact of plastic waste and highlight available alternatives before the 2027 deadline. The support from traditional authorities is seen as a significant boost to the regulator's efforts to ensure a smooth implementation of the environmental policy.