Celebrating World Cities Day: Youth-led Initiatives and Food Safety Take Center Stage

 

The Green Africa Youth Organization (GAYO) has marked World Cities Day by emphasizing the critical role that young people play in addressing urban challenges through impactful initiatives. As cities grow rapidly, especially in developing countries, young changemakers and regulatory bodies in Ghana are stepping up to address crises related to urbanization, food security, and sustainability.

FDA's Focus on Food Safety and Healthy Diets

In line with World Cities Day, the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) of Ghana has underscored the importance of food safety and healthy diets in creating sustainable urban environments. Speaking at the event, Desmond Paa Kwasi Hachman, a Senior Regulatory Officer at the FDA, highlighted that the UN’s initiative for World Cities Day draws attention to pressing urban issues, particularly in regions experiencing high rates of migration from rural to urban areas.

Paa Kwasi Hachman explained, "We've seen a significant influx of people migrating to cities like Accra and Kumasi. This has created immense pressure on city infrastructure and services, especially regarding waste management, food security, and nutrition."

In response, the FDA has been actively collaborating with the government of Ghana on the "Healthier Diets for Healthy Lives" initiative, a multi-ministerial project aiming to implement policies for promoting healthier food choices. Four primary policies are central to this initiative:

1. Comprehensive Food Labeling: The first policy mandates clear warning labels on food packaging, allowing consumers to make well-informed choices. "The idea is to provide easily understandable information so that people know what they are buying and consuming," Paa Kwasi Hachman said.

2. Restricting Marketing of Unhealthy Foods: The initiative will also limit the advertising of high-sugar, high-salt foods, especially those targeting children. The FDA has previously enforced similar restrictions on alcohol advertisements, setting a strong precedent.

3. Nutritional Standards in Government Procurement: To ensure that government programs, such as the school feeding scheme, provide nutritious meals, strict standards will be enforced on food procured by the government. "We want to make sure the food the government buys and serves is fresh, healthy, and nutritious," Paa Kwasi Hachman added.

4. Healthier Choices in Government Events: To encourage healthier options, government-catered events will gradually replace sugary beverages and snacks with fresh fruits and vegetables.

Through these policies, the FDA and the Ghanaian government aim to tackle urban sustainability challenges, enhancing the quality of life for city residents.

Youth Leadership in Climate and Urban Solutions

Jacob Johnson Attakpah, Zero Waste Cities Manager, commended young people for their exceptional contributions to climate and environmental efforts. Reflecting on this year's World Cities Day, he noted the diversity of youth-led organizations and the innovative solutions they are implementing to address critical urban issues. From composting initiatives to textile waste repurposing projects, young people are driving hands-on programs that deliver real impact beyond activism.

The event showcased creative approaches that young changemakers use to raise awareness of climate change and waste management issues. "People are using different ways—art, culture—to speak about climate and to help others understand the impacts of climate change and improper waste management," Attakpah explained.

One standout program featured at the event was the Cities Program, led by a young environmental advocate for the past several years. This program has become an integral part of World Cities Day, highlighting the potential of youth-driven solutions to tackle environmental challenges head-on.

A Testament to Youth Innovation

As the world faces an escalating climate crisis, World Cities Day serves as a reminder of the innovative spirit and dedication of young people in creating sustainable urban futures. Their grassroots efforts, practical solutions, and unwavering commitment offer hope and inspiration as cities navigate the challenges of rapid urbanization, climate change, and sustainability.

Story by Mizpah Ampem Darko.