Lomé:The National Human Rights Commission (CNDH) organized an information and awareness session in Lomé on Friday, November 6, focusing on the inter-ministerial decree regulating noise emissions in the Togolese Republic. The event brought together 148 participants from the municipalities of Golfe and Agoè-Nyivé, including administrative and local authorities, traditional chiefs, members of village, canton, and neighborhood development committees, as well as representatives from places of worship, bar owners, millers, security forces, civil society organizations, and consumer associations.
According to Agence Togolaise de Presse, the session aimed to enhance the understanding of the regulatory provisions among stakeholders and contribute to the fight against noise pollution. The initiative sought to raise awareness about the harmful effects of noise pollution on populations and the environment, while emphasizing the importance of adhering to established standards. It also aimed to clarify the roles and responsibilities of different stakeholders in implementing the regulations and equip participants with mechanisms for managing and controlling noise nuisances in their respective areas.
The event featured two key presentations. The first focused on the impact of noise nuisances on public health, the environment, and social cohesion. The second addressed the administrative procedures for handling disputes related to noise nuisances. Participants received a ten-page booklet outlining the law regulating noise emissions in the Togolese Republic, which was presented and discussed interactively.
CNDH President Me Kwao Ohin Sanvee highlighted that excessive noise, when intense or prolonged, can infringe on fundamental rights, including the right to health, rest, and private and family life. He stressed the importance of recognizing that no freedom can be exercised in disregard of others' rights. Me Sanvee expressed hope that the fight against noise pollution would prioritize awareness and mutual understanding to prevent parties from facing sanctions outlined in the regulations.
The Governor of the Autonomous District of Grand Lomé, Mme Zouréhatou Kassah-Traoré, emphasized three key requirements for ensuring the initiative's effectiveness compliance with regulations, shared responsibilities, and coordinated institutional interventions. She commended the CNDH's initiative and urged participants to act as conduits for disseminating the information received within their communities.