The Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, has announced an immediate ban on hawking, trading, and all unauthorized activities under the Kwame Nkrumah Interchange.
The directive forms part of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly’s (AMA) renewed efforts to restore order, improve sanitation, and reclaim public spaces across the capital.
AMA Clears Hawkers and Beggars from the Interchange
The Mayor issued the directive during a working visit to the Okaikoi South Sub-Metropolitan District on Tuesday.
Leading a team from the AMA, Mr Allotey inspected building permits, sanitation conditions, and compliance with Assembly by-laws. During the exercise, AMA officials cleared food vendors, beggars, and individuals sleeping beneath the Korle Klottey section of the Kwame Nkrumah Interchange.
According to the Mayor, the area can no longer be used for commercial activities, food vending, sleeping, or any other unauthorized purpose.
“The space must remain clean, safe, and free of obstructions,” he stated.
Mr Allotey warned that anyone found hawking, trading, or engaging in illegal activities under the interchange would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
He explained that the exercise is part of a broader campaign to improve sanitation and maintain public order in Accra.
The operation also led to the removal of makeshift structures and other unauthorized installations that had taken over sections of the interchange. Authorities said these structures created unsanitary conditions and posed safety risks to both motorists and pedestrians.
Earlier, the Mayor led a task force to demolish illegal wooden structures erected along Otublohum Road near the Circle VVIP Station.
He noted that such structures contribute to traffic congestion, poor sanitation, and the obstruction of public spaces.
Mr Allotey stressed that the AMA would continue taking decisive action against unauthorized developments that negatively affect the city’s appearance and functionality.
AMA Gives 24-Hour Deadline to Desilt Gutters
As part of the inspection exercise, the Mayor directed owners of drinking spots, managers of the VVIP Station, and cattle owners operating along Otublohum Road to desilt choked gutters within 24 hours.
He warned that those who fail to comply with the directive would face sanctions.
The Mayor reaffirmed the AMA’s commitment to strictly enforcing by-laws on sanitation, building permits, and public order.
He also urged residents, traders, transport operators, and business owners to support the Assembly’s efforts to keep Accra clean, safe, and orderly.
The latest crackdown underscores the AMA’s determination to reclaim public spaces and create a cleaner and more organised capital city.
