Markets and businesses close as flood clean-up begins across seven regions
On Friday, government ministries, departments and agencies, local authorities, schools, security services, waste management companies and private institutions are expected to lead the exercise.
Businesses, markets and non-essential workplaces in seven flood-hit regions have been ordered to close for part of Friday and Saturday as Ghana launches a nationwide clean-up operation following devastating floods.
The Ghanaian government has begun a two-day nationwide clean-up operation in seven flood-affected regions, ordering the temporary closure of markets, shops and other non-essential businesses to support efforts to clear drains and remove waste after recent flooding.
The exercise, which runs from 06:00 to 13:00 GMT on Friday and Saturday, is aimed at reducing the risk of further flooding by clearing blocked drainage systems, removing refuse and restoring public spaces.
On Friday, government ministries, departments and agencies, local authorities, schools, security services, waste management companies and private institutions are expected to lead the exercise.
Saturday's activities will focus on local communities, with residents, volunteers, traditional leaders, religious groups and civil society organisations joining the clean-up in affected neighbourhoods.
Authorities have directed that markets, commercial establishments, corporate organisations and other non-essential businesses within the seven affected regions remain closed during the exercise to encourage widespread participation. Essential and emergency services have been exempted.
The Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs has urged businesses, transport operators and residents to cooperate fully, describing the campaign as a key step towards restoring safer and cleaner communities after the floods.
More than 100 flood-prone locations have been identified for the operation in the Greater Accra Region alone.
The clean-up will take place across several metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies, including Ga South, Ga Central, Ga North, Ga East, Adenta, Madina, Tema West, Ledzokuku-Krowor (LEKMA), Ayawaso West, Ayawaso North, Ayawaso Central, Ayawaso East, Okaikwei North, Ningo-Prampram, Shai Osudoku, Ada East and Ada West.
Some of the worst-affected areas include Mallam, Weija, Tetegu, Awoshie, Pokuase, Ofankor, Dome, Abokobi, Agbogba, Alajo, Kokomlemle, Nima, Mamobi, Accra New Town, Kanda, the 37 Hospital corridor, Tema, Teshie, Nungua, Prampram and Sege.
The operation follows widespread flooding that affected communities across seven regions, prompting the government to announce a national response focused on improving sanitation, clearing waterways and reducing the impact of future heavy rains.