Accra, Ghana – May 20, 2025 – The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA), in partnership with the Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly (KoKMA), has launched a three-day decongestion operation in central Accra. The exercise targets unauthorized street trading and illegal structures obstructing pedestrian and vehicular movement.
The initiative began on Tuesday, May 20, and is part of broader efforts to enforce municipal regulations and enhance urban order in the Central Business District (CBD).
Why the Decongestion Exercise Is Taking Place
The operation aims to:
- Enforce the AMA Hawkers Bye-Laws (2017)
- Uphold Section 117(1) of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180)
- Improve sanitation and pedestrian access
- Enhance public safety and mobility
According to city officials, unauthorized traders and structures have contributed to traffic congestion, blocked footpaths, and increased sanitation challenges in the capital.
Three-Day Decongestion Plan: Areas and Timeline
The exercise is being carried out in three phases:
Day 1: Tuesday, May 20
Key areas targeted include:
- AMA Head Office surroundings
- Kinbu Road to Railways
- ECG Junction to King Tackie Tawiah Statue
- Zongo Lane
- Opera Square to Adabraka
Day 2: Wednesday, May 21
Areas of focus:
- Wato Junction to King Tackie Tawiah School
- Cow Lane
- UTC Road to Timber Market
- Sections of Kwame Nkrumah Circle
Day 3: Thursday, May 22
Final locations:
- Remaining parts of Kwame Nkrumah Circle
- Kaneshie enclave, including Pamprom Lane and major footbridges
Compliance and Enforcement
Before the exercise began, traders were given a four-day ultimatum to vacate unauthorized spaces. The AMA, with support from the Ghana Police Service, is removing unauthorized structures and ensuring public spaces are cleared for safe usage.
Mayor’s Engagement and Vision
Mayor Michael Kpakpo Allotey personally engaged with traders ahead of the operation, urging their cooperation. He stressed the need to maintain clean, organized streets and warned that continued violations would face legal consequences.
He also announced plans for a 24-hour city operation model. This includes:
- Continuous clean-up teams
- Round-the-clock security patrols
- Improved infrastructure to support night-time trading activities
Public Support and Future Plans
While some traders have expressed concern over the economic impact, many residents support the initiative for its potential to restore order in one of Ghana’s busiest commercial hubs. The AMA assures the public that the ultimate goal is to create a safer, cleaner, and more functional city.
