The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has announced that all shops, markets, and commercial establishments in the metropolis will be closed from 6 a.m. to 12 noon on Saturday, October 3. This directive is part of the National World Cleanup Day, which coincides with the October edition of the National Sanitation Day. The exercise aims to improve sanitation across the metropolis and is led by the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga.
The National World Cleanup Day is under the theme, “National Sanitation Day: Local Actions Yielding National Impact.” According to the AMA, the exercise is part of the government’s Clean Up Ghana Agenda. The goal is to mobilize residents, traders, transport operators, businesses, and other stakeholders to work together to enhance sanitation in the metropolis. The AMA has stated that activities will be coordinated across its three sub-metropolitan areas.
The AMA has identified specific focal areas for the cleanup exercise. These areas include Rawlings Park and London Market in Ashiedu Keteke, Tuesday Market and Camara in Ablekuma South, and Circle Neoplan Station in Okaikoi South. During the exercise, desilting drains, general cleaning, and the removal and collection of refuse will be carried out. The AMA has deployed Public Health Officers, known as Sama-Sama, and the AMA Sanitation Task Force to monitor compliance and enforce sanitation directives.
The AMA has warned that persons who fail to comply with the directive could face sanctions, including prosecution and penalties prescribed by law. In addition to the closure of shops and markets, the AMA has urged corporate institutions, religious bodies, community organizations, schools, youth groups, and other stakeholders to actively participate in the exercise. The Assembly emphasizes that keeping Accra clean requires the collective effort of all stakeholders.
The National Sanitation Day is a regular event aimed at promoting sanitation and cleanliness across Ghana. The exercise has been ongoing and is part of the government’s efforts to improve the country’s sanitation and environmental conditions. The AMA’s directive is an effort to involve all stakeholders in the cleanup exercise and promote a sense of responsibility among residents.
Residents and stakeholders are expected to support the October 3 exercise and work together to improve sanitation in the metropolis. The AMA has stressed the importance of collective action in keeping Accra clean and has urged everyone to participate in the exercise. By doing so, residents can contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment.
The AMA’s directive for the closure of shops and markets on October 3 is a significant step towards achieving the goals of the National World Cleanup Day. The exercise is expected to have a positive impact on sanitation in the metropolis and promote a culture of cleanliness among residents. The AMA will continue to work with stakeholders to ensure the success of the exercise and improve sanitation in Accra.
Key points
- The Accra Metropolitan Assembly has directed shops and markets to close on October 3 for the National World Cleanup Day.
- The exercise aims to improve sanitation across the metropolis and is part of the government’s Clean Up Ghana Agenda.
- The AMA has deployed Public Health Officers and the AMA Sanitation Task Force to monitor compliance and enforce sanitation directives.
