The Concerned Farmers Association of Ghana has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to agencies and entities responsible for installing synthetic turf in Ghana, citing environmental and health concerns. This development is not surprising, given the country’s struggles with health risks and environmental degradation.

Ghana is currently embarking on an effort to upgrade its football infrastructure, with companies like the Ghana National Gas Company making significant contributions to this initiative.

However, the Concerned Farmers Association of Ghana is warning that synthetic turf poses “a growing threat to the nation’s ecosystems and agricultural sector”, branding it “a scourge that is rapidly degrading the environment” and demanding its removal.

In an urgent statement issued last week, the association declared war on synthetic turf, claiming it contributes to the heat island effect, water pollution, and the release of toxic chemicals, all of which have detrimental effects on the land, water, and overall health of Ghanaian communities.

Nana Oboadie Boateng Bonsu, the association’s president, warned that failure to comply with the 48-hour ultimatum would result in the association seeking justice through the courts.

“We will not stand idly by and allow this environmental degradation to continue. We are prepared to take all necessary legal measures to protect our nation’s future,” he stated.