Traders who flout decongestion directive will be fined ₵2000 – Accra Regional Minister

Linda Ocloo, the Greater Accra Regional Minister, announced fines for traders. Those who ignore the decongestion directive will face a ₵2000 fine.

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) started its decongestion exercise on May 20, 2025. Task forces from AMA, along with the Ghana Police Service, conducted operations. They dismantled makeshift stalls and unauthorized kiosks. Vendors were removed from pavements and roadsides in key areas of the Central Business District.

The first phase of this exercise focuses on specific locations. These include the AMA Head Office, Kinbu Road to Railways, and ECG Junction to King Tackie Tawiah Statue. The operation will last for two weeks. Its goals are to enforce city bylaws and ease congestion for pedestrians and vehicles.

After the exercise began, vehicles moved freely as streets cleared. Linda Ocloo toured the CBD during this operation. She stated that a task force would work 24 hours a day. They will mark a red line on the road; crossing it incurs a fee of ₵1500 to ₵2000.

Ocloo also mentioned that market leaders would monitor compliance alongside the task force. Michael Kpakpo Allotey, the Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE), spoke at a press conference on May 20. He emphasized that this effort is ongoing until roads are clear.

Allotey said they would return to the streets shortly after their press conference. They planned to go to Circle and possibly Kaneshie next. He also mentioned future plans for street markets under a 24-hour economy plan.

On designated days, street vendors will be allowed to sell while traffic is diverted. This approach aims to support those without space in traditional markets.

Traders who flout decongestion directives may face fines between ₵1000 and ₵2000 according to Linda Ocloo's announcement.