The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has warned that residents, traders and business operators who fail to participate in the city’s August sanitation exercise could face arrest and prosecution.
The Assembly said the exercise forms part of its renewed campaign to improve environmental sanitation and reduce flooding in the capital.
According to the AMA, participation is mandatory for people living and operating businesses within areas covered by the exercise. Officials said environmental health officers, city guards and security personnel will monitor compliance throughout the operation.
The Assembly cautioned that anyone who ignores the directive or violates sanitation by-laws may face legal action.
Officials urged residents to clean their homes, shops and surrounding areas during the exercise. They also encouraged the public to clear choked drains and dispose of waste through approved collection services.
The AMA said the exercise aims to improve public health by reducing environmental hazards that contribute to disease outbreaks.
The warning follows recent flooding in parts of Accra, where blocked drains and poor waste disposal worsened the impact of heavy rainfall. City authorities have repeatedly identified indiscriminate dumping of refuse as one of the major causes of urban flooding.
The Assembly believes regular community clean-up exercises can help improve sanitation standards and reduce flood risks across the city.
Authorities also appealed to market associations, transport operators, community leaders and business owners to support the initiative. They said collective action remains essential to maintaining a clean and healthy environment.
Environmental health experts have consistently stressed the importance of proper waste management, regular drain maintenance and public participation in sanitation campaigns. They argue that sustained community involvement can significantly reduce sanitation-related diseases and improve urban resilience.
The AMA has intensified sanitation enforcement in recent months as part of broader government efforts to strengthen environmental management. Officials say enforcement of existing by-laws will complement public education and awareness campaigns.
The Assembly emphasized that the objective is to encourage compliance rather than punish residents. However, it maintained that authorities will enforce the law where necessary to protect public health and promote environmental responsibility.
Residents have therefore been encouraged to cooperate with officials and actively participate in the exercise to help keep Accra clean, reduce flooding and improve living conditions across the metropolis.
