“Stepping Towards Sustainability: Sandal More Project Launches for a Greener Future”
The Technical Director in Charge of Forestry at the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, Mr. Joseph Osiakwah on behalf of the Sector Minister, Hon. Samuel A. Jinapor, launched Phase II of the ” Sandal More for a Better Tomorrow ” project at the Kroma Cluster of Schools in Nungua, Accra on Tuesday, September 10, 2024.
The project, initiated by Access Bank involves collecting and turning worn out vehicle tyres into finished sandals through recycling.
Delivering the Key Note address on behalf of the Minister, Mr. Joseph Osiakwan emphasized the importance of addressing climate change and its devastating impacts on Ghana. He highlighted government’s efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change through initiatives like the Green Ghana Day and the One-Student, One-Tree Initiative.
These initiatives, he noted, “include strengthening law enforces and increasing awareness creation, reflects government’s commitment to restoring Ghana’s forest cover and contributing to the global fight against climate change and we entreat all of you to embrace these initiatives”.
He commended Access Bank for their visionary leadership and commitment to sustainability, education, and community development. He noted that the project aligns with national policies and strategies, contributing to multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Responsible Consumption and Production, Quality Education, and No Poverty.
“The holistic approach of this project makes it truly commendable. It underscores the fact that sustainability is not just about protecting the environment but also about enhancing the well-being of our people through creativity and innovation,” he said.
He further urged other financial institutions and organizations to emulate Access Bank’s example in preserving the ecosystem and planet earth.
Speaking on behalf of Mr. Olumide Olatunji, Managing Director of Access Bank Ghana PLC, Madam Ugochi Okoro, Chief Operating Officer of Access bank PLC emphasized that the project aims to empower communities by creating jobs for local shoe makers, support climate action by collecting tyre waste from the environment and planting trees across the schools to be visited and impact education by support over 20,000 school children with free school sandals made from uuse car tyres which will encourage and keep children in schools.
Madam Okoro expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources for lending their support to the project, which aligns with the government’s efforts to fight climate change.
“We are committed to sustainability and community development. This project is a testament to our dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of Ghanaians,” Okoro said.
Apostle Dr. Christian Koramoah, Financial Controller of the Ghana Education Service (GES), noted that the initiative aligns with GES’ efforts to ensure every child attends school with dignity and comfort. Dr. Koramoah welcomed the project, stating that it demonstrates Access Bank’s commitment to supporting education and sustainability.
He was pleased to learn that the project will deliver sandals to over 200 schools across the country by driving a special truck across 16 regions f Ghana and also plant trees, which will help develop students’ interest in climate change activities.
The “Sandal More for a Better Tomorrow” project has made a significant impact, with thousands of school children benefiting from the initiative. The project’s Phase II aims to expand its reach and impact, promoting sustainable practices and supporting quality education.
To commemorate the occasion, key to the “Better Tomorrow Truck” was presented to the assigned drivers and trees were planted, symbolizing the project’s commitment to environmental sustainability and its impact on future generations.
