Mankranso Zongo refuse heap cleared after public health concerns

A large refuse heap at ‘Bɔɔla Kɛseɛm’ in Mankranso Zongo, Kumasi, has been removed and taken to a final disposal site following intervention by Ahafo Ano South West District Chief Executive Abubakar Sedik.

The clearance operation was carried out on Tuesday, 25 August 2026, after the waste had accumulated into a substantial mound and become a serious environmental and public health concern for residents.

The exercise forms part of Mr Sedik’s efforts to improve sanitation across the district and provide communities with cleaner and safer surroundings. The removal of the waste has changed the condition of the affected area, easing concerns over the offensive odour, unsightly appearance and possible health dangers linked to the prolonged build-up of solid waste.

Residents of Mankranso Zongo welcomed the intervention and expressed their appreciation for the swift response to an issue that had affected the community for some time.

The District Chief Executive said the health and welfare of residents remained a central priority of his administration. He also stressed that development would have little meaning if people continued to live in unhealthy and unhygienic conditions.

According to Mr Sedik, the clearance demonstrates his administration’s intention to address sanitation problems through practical and timely measures, rather than allowing them to become more serious.

The removal is expected to improve cleanliness and sanitation in the community while helping to reduce the threat of diseases associated with improper waste disposal.

Mr Sedik appealed to residents to help protect the newly cleared area by disposing of waste responsibly and refraining from creating refuse heaps at unauthorised locations.

“The health of our people is paramount to me. A clean environment is essential to a healthy community, and we will continue to take practical steps to protect the people and improve their living conditions,” he stated.

The intervention at ‘Bɔɔla Kɛseɛm’ is the latest indication of Abubakar Sedik’s focus on sanitation, public health and the wider well-being of residents in the Ahafo Ano South West District.

The authorities said maintaining the benefits of the operation would require cooperation from the community. Residents’ collective responsibility for proper waste disposal will be important in preventing another large accumulation from forming at the site.

The clearance has relieved the immediate pressure created by the refuse heap, while also reinforcing the district administration’s wider commitment to improving environmental conditions for people living across the area.

By Benjamin Aidoo