President John Dramani Mahama has ordered a two-day national clean-up exercise on July 10 and 11, 2026. This directive affects seven regions impacted by recent floods. All markets and shops in these regions must close during the exercise.
The clean-up follows severe floods on June 29, especially in the Greater Accra Region. These floods resulted in 12 fatalities and affected approximately 38,800 individuals. Homes, businesses, and public facilities sustained significant damage.
This initiative is part of a broader government effort to address the aftermath of the floods. It aims to clear debris, desilt drains, and disinfect flood-affected areas. The goal is to reduce the risk of disease outbreaks and prevent further flooding before future heavy rains. This aligns with Ghana's ongoing challenges in urban planning and disaster preparedness. Many Ghanaian cities frequently experience flooding during the rainy season, leading to substantial economic disruption and public health concerns.
Ahmed Ibrahim, the Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, confirmed the mandatory nature of the exercise. He stated that security agencies have received instructions to ensure compliance. Mr. Ibrahim warned traders and shop owners against opening their businesses during the designated clean-up period. He emphasized that non-compliance would lead to consequences, citing legal backing for the presidential order.
The presidential directive calls for ministers, Members of Parliament, and local government officials to lead clean-up activities in their communities. The Post-Flood Mitigation Committee coordinates the exercise under the theme "Our Actions, Our Future: Cleaning Ghana after the Floods." Presidential Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu announced this in a statement issued on July 6, 2026. This coordinated effort highlights the government's commitment to immediate environmental rehabilitation and public health. Similar national exercises in the past have seen mixed success, often depending on public cooperation and enforcement.
The clean-up will occur in the Greater Accra, Volta, Central, Western, Western North, Ashanti, and Eastern regions. These regions experienced the most significant impact from the recent floods. Mr. Ibrahim stressed that the temporary closure of markets is crucial to prevent disease spread. Floodwaters entered many markets, posing a direct threat to public health if not properly sanitized. He explained that uncleaned areas could lead to contaminated goods being sold, causing disease outbreaks. This measure aims to safeguard public health and economic stability by ensuring safe trading environments.
While the clean-up is mandatory, July 10 is not a public holiday. Mr. Kwakye Ofosu clarified that Friday remains a regular working day. However, all workers in ministries, metropolitan, municipal, and district assemblies must participate in the clean-up. Employers are urged to release staff to join this national effort. Saturday, July 11, is dedicated to broader public participation. Brigadier General Forster Okae-Yeboah and his team have already begun preparatory work. This dual approach ensures both institutional leadership and widespread community involvement in the recovery process.