15th January, 2015

The Daily Graphic discusses the need for adequate measures to prevent fires. The paper says the loss of the Central Medical Stores of the Ghana Health Service in Tema, has exposed the country's lack of preparedness to face such disasters. The Graphic believes it is time people who tampered with fire hydrants are prosecuted. It calls for a plan to make all fire hydrants operational. The paper says apart from a better fire system and response, the Ghana National Fire Service owes it a duty to Ghanaians to ensure that only standard and non-expired fire extinguishers are available to the public at affordable prices.

The Ghanaian Times commends successive governments for their commitment to achieving universal water coverage for the country in 2025. The paper says the commissioning of the first phase of the Kpong water project as well as the sod-cutting ceremony for the 20 million-euro water supply project in Cape Coast attest to government's commitment to invest in the water sector in both the rural and urban areas to provide potable water for Ghanaians. The Times therefore urges government to keep up the pace of investment and expand pipe-borne water supply to more areas in the country.

The Today newspaper describes as unfortunate, how the aged in society are tagged witches and wizards without any reason. It says people seem to forget that ageing is an inevitable part of life adding that it is important to show the necessary respect for the aged in society. The paper applauds the recent action by the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection in closing down the Bonyase Witches Camp adding that, there is the need for government to have a welfare plan for the aged to live comfortably without stress and not to become a burden on society.

The Daily Heritage bemoans the issue of pregnancy which is rapidly taking over most communities across the country. The paper attributes the problem to several factors beyond the lack of parental control and poverty. These factors are exposure of the youth to adult movies and adventures on the part of the teenagers also contribute to the canker. The recent happenings are a threat to human resource and national security because most of these teenagers normally drop out of school without any labour skills for gainful employment. The paper also advises parents to take key interest in training their wards to become useful citizens in the society. The paper calls on the government to introduce policies to help reduce poverty, hence urge all stakeholders to join hands in educating and training the youth.

GBC