In Accra, Ghana, a new chapter of collaboration was launched as the All-Africa Students Union (AASU) and Pure Earth Ghana formalized their partnership with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The event, brought together student representatives, government agencies, and environmental leaders to discuss a shared vision for a cleaner, healthier Africa.
from left, Dr. Maxwell Kogbe, Chief Scientific Officer- Ghana Standards Authority, Rev. Dr. Esmond Quansah, Africa Program Director- Pure Earth, Madam Jemilatu Mamshie Bawa, Chief Operating Officer- All-Africa Students Union, and Mr. Hobson Agyapong, Principal Programme Officer- Environmental Protection Authority.
Pollution: A Silent Threat
In his remarks, Rev. Dr. Esmond Quansah, Africa Program Director, Pure Earth, emphasized the urgency of addressing heavy metal pollution, particularly lead and mercury. He cited alarming statistics from UNICEF and the World Bank:
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800 million children worldwide are lead-poisoned, with 90% living in low-and middle-income countries.
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An estimated 765 million IQ points are lost annually due to lead poisoning, with Africa disproportionately affected.
“These figures should concern us all,” he said. “For decades, heavy metal pollution has posed an enormous threat to human survival. Students are among the most powerful voices that can drive change on this continent.”
Rev. Dr. Quansah acknowledged Ghana’s progress through the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) and the Standards Authority, but warned that lead has infiltrated consumer products such as cookware and cosmetics, issues that demand urgent and collaborative solutions.
Rev. Dr. Esmond Wisdom Quansah, Africa Program Director- Pure Earth
Madam Jemilatu Mamshie Bawa, Chief Operating Officer-All-Africa Students Union welcomed the partnership, stressing the importance of student involvement in solving today’s environmental crises. “Our students are directly affected, with challenges such as declining IQ levels and the pressures of digital technology, it is vital to empower young people to be part of this struggle for a better environment.”
Mad. Mamshie Bawa pledged to leverage AASU’s continental networks and strong connections with the African Union to ensure the partnership extends beyond Ghana, amplifying youth-led advocacy and awareness across Africa.
Government and Stakeholder Support
The Ghana Standards Authority and Environmental Protection Authority, applauded the collaboration. They highlighted the sobering statistics of IQ losses and health burdens linked to lead poisoning, calling for joint action from students, civil society, and state institutions.
“I’m always happy to witness unity in activities like this. Our 1992 Constitution mandates environmental stewardship. The environment doesn’t owe us anything, if we neglect it, we suffer the consequences. This partnership gives us hope for a brighter future.”, said Mr. Hobson Agyapong, Environmental Protection Authority.
Looking Ahead
Both organizations agreed that the MoU should not remain a ceremonial gesture but translate into tangible results. Plans are already underway to:
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Develop activity plan with clear deliverables.
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Launch awareness campaigns across African universities.
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Engage regional bodies such as the African Union and environmental ministries.
Signing and exchanging of MoUs by both leaders
As the session concluded, the mood was hopeful. The symbolic signing of the MoU was followed by the exchange of documents and a group photo, marking not just the end of the event but the beginning of a shared journey toward environmental justice.
“This partnership,” said Rev. Dr. Quansah, “is not just about paperwork. It is about impact. Together, we can build a cleaner and healthier Africa.”
Media contact and enquires, contact:
Nana Agyei Sikapa Ofosu-Manu
Communications Officer
Pure Earth Ghana
[email protected]/ +233558182560
