Residents of Ataabade, a community in the Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abirem (KEEA) Municipality, are raising concerns over worsening sanitation conditions due to the accumulation of uncollected waste along a residential pathway.
The narrow route, bordered by residential buildings, has become a dumping ground for plastic bags, bottles, food wrappers, and other refuse. The situation, residents say, has persisted for weeks and now poses serious health and environmental risks, particularly for children and the elderly who use the path daily.
Images from the area show houses located just a few feet from the waste, with some residents visibly going about their daily routines amid the unsanitary conditions. The proximity of the waste to homes has increased concerns about pest infestations, foul odours, and potential disease outbreaks. Health experts warn that the situation could worsen during the rainy season, as water runoff from the waste may contaminate nearby water sources or seep into homes. Stagnant water around the garbage also presents a breeding ground for mosquitoes, increasing the risk of vector-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue.
Piles of waste lie just feet away from residential homes in AtaabadeThe main path through the community is heavily polluted
Madam Cassy, a nurse living in the community, expressed concern over the health implications.
“As a nurse, I am deeply concerned about the health implications of the pollution we see in this area. Open dumping of waste, especially so close to people’s homes, is extremely dangerous. It exposes residents to a range of health issues — from respiratory problems due to toxic fumes and dust to waterborne diseases like cholera and typhoid,” she said.
A resident who spoke on condition of anonymity also expressed frustration.
“This used to be a place where our children could walk safely and play. Now, we fear for their health every day. We’ve complained, but nothing is being done,” the resident said.
Accumulated garbage, including plastics and organic waste, creates a breeding ground for pests and disease.
Residents are calling on local authorities and sanitation task forces to intervene. Suggested solutions include the provision of waste bins, regular refuse collection, designated dumping sites, and public sensitization campaigns to promote proper waste disposal.
The situation in Ataabade highlights broader challenges with waste management in several parts of the country, where inadequate infrastructure and public negligence contribute to growing environmental and public health concerns.
