AMA warns of sanctions for non-compliance with November 7 sanitation exercise

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has issued a warning to residents, traders, and businesses in the city that anyone operating during the upcoming National Sanitation Day exercise on November 7, 2026, will face legal penalties. The event is set to take place from 6:00 a.m. to noon across the Accra Metropolis. In a recent statement, the Assembly revealed that they have already taken legal action against 27 offenders for not participating in prior clean-up events as part of their efforts to enforce sanitation rules and promote responsible environmental practices.

However, the Assembly clarifies that the purpose of this upcoming exercise is not to generate revenue through fines but to foster behavioral change, encourage public involvement, and cultivate a culture of cleanliness among citizens.

The November Sanitation Day will encompass activities such as sweeping streets and public spaces, desilting blocked drains, clearing overgrown vegetation, removing accumulated waste, and cleaning markets, lorry parks, commercial areas, and residential neighborhoods. These tasks will be carried out in compliance with the AMA (Communal Labour) By-laws of 2017.

The Assembly plans to utilize Environmental Health Officers, members of their Sanitation Task Force, and other enforcement personnel to ensure adherence to the guidelines throughout the city.

To prepare for the exercise, residents are being advised to clean their immediate surroundings, clear weeds and drains in front of their properties, and gather waste properly for collection and transportation. The AMA has also called upon traditional authorities, religious leaders, market associations, transport unions, youth groups, corporate organizations, and other stakeholders to mobilize their members and contribute to the success of the event.

The Assembly emphasizes that maintaining a clean and healthy environment is a collective responsibility that should not solely be the duty of sanitation workers and local authorities. The statement was issued by Gilbert Nii Ankrah, Head of Public Affairs at the AMA, on behalf of the Metropolitan Chief Executive.