Deputy Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, has given city authorities a one-week ultimatum to begin the removal of illegally mounted billboards cluttering major streets in Accra.
She issued the directive on Tuesday, April 28, during an interview with the media while leading an inspection tour by the Technical Committee on the Regularisation and Sanitisation of Billboards and Signages across the Ayawaso West, Ayawaso East, and La Dade Kotopon Municipalities.
She described the situation as unacceptable and detrimental to the capital’s image.
The exercise forms part of a directive by President John Mahama aimed at restoring order and improving the aesthetics of principal and ceremonial routes in Accra.
Madam Sowah also disclosed that measures are being considered to regulate the number and placement of bus shelters at designated stops, following concerns about encroachment and misuse of public spaces.
She urged advertisers and advertising agencies to comply with the regulations as authorities intensify efforts to decongest and beautify the city.
Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) have assured the Ministry of their readiness to take immediate action, with a follow-up inspection expected within a week.
Authorities have also raised concerns over unauthorised billboards erected without permits, warning that offenders will be fined before any confiscated structures are released.
Speaking during the tour, Rita Naa Odoley Sowah stressed the need for broader urban planning that goes beyond buildings to include advertising spaces.
“When we are looking at urban development, these are all areas we need to look at. It doesn’t just have to focus on buildings and other areas, but the advertising space is one area we need to ensure is well-managed.
“The MMDCEs have assured us they are going to declutter their areas, so we’ll come back in a week to check,” she said.
