4th September 2025.
REPORT ON MUNICIPAL SANITATION DAY CLEAN-UP EXERCISE HELD ON 3RD SEPTEMBER 2025
INTRODUCTION
The Municipal Sanitation Day clean-up exercise was organized to improve environmental cleanliness and promote public health within Akosombo Market, the E & G Pharmacy stretch, Obuasi Down, and surrounding areas. This initiative formed part of the National Sanitation Day activities aimed at mobilizing communities to take an active role in maintaining a clean and healthy environment.
OBJECTIVES
- To rid the community of accumulated refuse, plastics, and other waste materials.
- To clear drains and prevent flooding during the rainy season.
- To sensitize residents, traders, and business operators on proper waste management practices.
- To strengthen community participation in environmental sanitation.
PARTICIPATION
The exercise brought together the following groups and individuals:
- The Municipal Chief Executive and her entourage.
- The Zongo Community and leaders.
- The Traditional Authorities.
- Assembly Members.
- Akosombo Market Women.
- Main Market Women.
- The Gyidiem Community.
- Zoomlion Staff.
- Members from the National Democratic Party.
- Staff from the Environmental Health Unit and Municipal Assembly.
- Obuasi Community members.
- Teachers and students from Saviour M/A and St. Andrews International School.
ACTIVITIES CARRIED OUT
The clean-up exercise began at 6:08 a.m. and included the following key activities:
- Sweeping and cleaning of the entire Akosombo Market, the roadside from E & G Pharmacy to Obuasi Down, and adjoining lanes.
- Opening and clearing of major and adjoining drains along the Obuasi stretch of silt, plastics, and other debris.
- Collection and transportation of refuse using wheelbarrows into a designated skip container, which was later moved to the final disposal site.
- Sensitization by Environmental Health Officers on the dangers of crude dumping and other unhygienic practices.
- Pre-announcements to mobilize participants to the site.
- Provision of a public address system to encourage and motivate participants.
OBSERVATIONS
- Akosombo Market had a high accumulation of waste hidden under sheds.
- Plastics and sachet rubbers were common along the E & G Pharmacy corridor.
- Obuasi Down recorded crude dumping sites requiring more frequent monitoring.
- Community members showed enthusiasm but requested the provision of additional skip containers.
- Several residents joined voluntarily, showing strong community spirit and commitment.
OUTCOMES
The clean-up exercise yielded several positive outcomes:
- All drains were significantly cleared.
- Market traders were educated on maintaining a clean and healthy working environment, fostering a sense of responsibility among the community.
- Proper disposal of collected waste was ensured, preventing crude dumping.
CHALLENGES
- Inadequate tools and logistics to meet the high turnout.
- Some residents still practice open dumping and burning of refuse.
- Lack of a skip container in the area.
RECOMMENDATIONS / WAY FORWARD
- Provide additional logistics to support larger turnouts.
- Intensify community education and enforcement of sanitation laws.
- Encourage market leaders to adopt daily sweeping routines.
- Provide an additional communal waste container at either Akosombo Market or Obuasi Down.
- Leaders of the Obuasi community should ensure regular monthly clean-up exercises to sustain progress made.
CONCLUSION
The Sanitation Day clean-up exercise from Akosombo Market through E & G Pharmacy to Obuasi Down and its environs was successfully carried out. The environment was visibly improved, drains were unclogged, and public awareness was enhanced. With continuous support from the Municipal Assembly, stakeholders, and residents, a clean and healthy environment can be sustained in the area.
