Watch drone shots from the Central Business District after decongestion exercise

A video has emerged showing drone shots of Accra's Central Business District. This follows a decongestion exercise conducted this morning.

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) started its major decongestion effort on May 20, 2025. Task forces from the AMA, along with the Ghana Police Service, took action to remove makeshift stalls and unauthorized kiosks. They also cleared vendors from pavements and roadsides in key areas of the Central Business District.

The first phase of the exercise focuses on several locations. These include the AMA Head Office, Kinbu Road to Railways, ECG Junction to King Tackie Tawiah Statue, and Opera Square through Adabraka. The operation will last for two weeks. Its goals are to enforce city bylaws, reduce congestion, and ensure safe movement for pedestrians and vehicles.

After the decongestion exercise, vehicles were seen moving freely. Traders had been cleared from roads and pavements. However, some traders in Tudu expressed strong dissatisfaction after their goods were confiscated by the AMA for illegal selling on pavements.

These traders argued that street vending is their only source of income. They claimed it supports their children and removing them was unfair. They noted that the previous government did not treat them this way.

One trader said, “Nana Addo in 8 years did not sack us.” He added that they sold at the roadside to care for their children. He criticized the current administration for treating them poorly just months into its term.

In contrast, a video surfaced showing Makola market women praising Accra's Mayor for his efforts during the decongestion exercise. The viral video shared on X shows a market woman expressing gratitude towards the Mayor and his team.

Some Ghanaians have shared mixed opinions about the situation. One person remarked, “Eii, this is the first time I’ve seen an open space in Accra.” Another stated that some people have not been doing their jobs properly while hiding behind political excuses.

One more comment suggested committing resources to create alternative livelihoods for affected vendors.

Watch the video below:

Drone shots from Accra's Central Business District after today’s decongestion exercise.#JoyNews pic.twitter.com/S87KESEncA
— JoyNews (@JoyNewsOnTV) May 20, 2025