Kumasi launches crackdown on poor sanitation as KMA begins issuing summons to offenders

Kumasi ramps up sanitation enforcement following Accra flooding tragedy

The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) and Zoomlion Ghana Limited have intensified efforts to combat flooding by launching a comprehensive sanitation drive across the city. The initiative, which follows devastating floods in Greater Accra that killed over 30 people, aims to clear blocked drains, desilt gutters, and remove solid waste from critical areas including Bantama Market, Asebi, and other flood-prone communities.

Starting Monday, 6 July 2026, the KMA will begin a sanitation summons initiative targeting households city-wide. Kumasi Mayor Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi warned residents that the exercise will be stricter than previous efforts, with offenders arrested and prosecuted on the same day. Residents have already been notified through public notices to clean their homes and surroundings ahead of the enforcement period.

Zoomlion's Managing Director, Mrs. Doris Kweikwor Adjei, said the company is deploying additional equipment including septic tank emptiers and skip trucks to support the Ashanti Region and other areas. She emphasised that sustainable sanitation requires consistent action and shared responsibility between citizens, government, and stakeholders, rather than one-off clean-up exercises.

The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, confirmed that a 50% cash reward scheme for reporting illegal waste dumping remains active and effective. He stated that all whistleblowers have been compensated, and offenders caught dumping waste illegally have been prosecuted, with some receiving jail sentences of 14 to 30 days.

Dr. Amoakohene urged residents to take ownership of their environment and use reporting channels to help enforce sanitation laws. The regional coordinating council and KMA have committed to maintaining the campaign throughout the rainy season to prevent flooding and protect communities.