Private businesses to finance beautification of streets, in exchange for advertising rights – Mahama Ayariga

The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, has revealed a novel initiative that will enable private enterprises to finance the enhancement of streets and landmarks in major cities across Ghana. In exchange for their financial contribution, these businesses would be granted the privilege of having the streets and landmarks named after them, along with the opportunity to secure advertising space and rights.

This proposal was unveiled by Ayariga during a Government Accountability Series at the Jubilee House in Accra on Monday, October 5, 2026, where he shared his vision with journalists and the public.

The initiative is part of the Ministry's overarching strategy to enhance urban aesthetics, foster cleanliness, and elevate the overall appearance of key cities such as Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, and Sekondi-Takoradi. Ayariga emphasized that the Ministry aims to alleviate the financial burden typically placed on the central government by leveraging private sector participation to address the issue of deteriorating streets, medians, roundabouts, parks, and other public landmarks.

These areas have, over time, fallen into disrepair due to insufficient funding for routine maintenance and improvement efforts.

Ayariga explained that the Ministry intends to forge a mutually beneficial partnership with private businesses. "We are in the process of establishing an initiative that will see private businesses fund the beautification of streets and landmarks in major cities, in return for having those streets and landmarks named after their enterprises and receiving advertising space and rights," he stated.

This approach would ensure that public spaces are maintained in a clean, green, and visually appealing condition, while simultaneously providing businesses with increased visibility and brand recognition.

The Minister assured that the initiative will not compromise the cultural and historical significance of established names for streets and monuments. He affirmed that due diligence and consultations with traditional authorities, local assemblies, and relevant stakeholders would be conducted before any naming rights are granted. Additionally, the Ministry is committed to regulating the advertising spaces provided under this initiative to prevent clutter and preserve the beauty and orderliness of the cities.

Further details regarding the initiative, including the application process for interested businesses, will be disclosed after cabinet and stakeholder consultations are completed.