Accra Mayor orders immediate ban on hawking and trading under Kwame Nkrumah Interchange

Accra Mayor Michael Kpakpo Allotey has directed the immediate cessation of all hawking, trading and other unauthorised activities beneath the Kwame Nkrumah Interchange, warning that violators will face legal consequences.

The directive was issued during a monitoring exercise in the Okaikoi South Sub-Metropolitan District, where the Mayor, accompanied by officials of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA), inspected sanitation conditions, development permits and compliance with local regulations.

As part of the exercise, AMA officials removed traders, food vendors, beggars and other individuals occupying sections beneath the Korle Klottey side of the interchange.

Addressing assembly personnel, Mr Allotey stated that the area would no longer be permitted to serve as a marketplace, temporary shelter or location for any unauthorised activities. He emphasised the Assembly’s determination to maintain the space as a clean, secure and orderly public area.

The Mayor warned that anyone found engaging in hawking, trading or other prohibited activities under the interchange would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

According to him, the enforcement exercise forms part of a broader initiative by the AMA to improve sanitation, enhance public safety and restore order across the capital.

The operation also led to the removal of makeshift structures and unauthorised installations that had taken over parts of the area, contributing to environmental degradation and creating hazards for pedestrians and motorists.

Earlier in the day, Mr Allotey supervised the demolition of illegal wooden structures along Otublohum Road near the Circle VIP Transport Terminal. He noted that such structures contribute to congestion, poor sanitation and the unlawful occupation of public spaces.

The Mayor further directed operators of drinking spots, management of the transport terminal and cattle owners within the area to desilt blocked drains within 24 hours or face sanctions.

Reaffirming the Assembly’s commitment to enforcing regulations on sanitation, physical planning and public order, Mr Allotey called on residents, traders and transport operators to cooperate with efforts aimed at making Accra cleaner, safer and more organised.

Prince Antwi

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