Zoomlion Company Limited has initiated an eight-day disinfection and disinfestation exercise across 22 Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) in Ghana's Central Region. This critical operation, which started on Thursday, August 20, 2026, aims to mitigate public health risks following recent flood events.
The intervention specifically targets public facilities such as schools, markets, health centres, and public toilets. These sites were identified through rapid risk assessments conducted by local assemblies. The exercise directly responds to widespread flooding that affected numerous communities, creating conditions ripe for the spread of water- and vector-borne diseases.
This initiative forms part of an ongoing agreement between Zoomlion and the Ghanaian government for large-scale disinfection and pest-control services. The collaboration ensures a coordinated effort with the Central Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) and various local assemblies. Such periodic interventions are vital for maintaining public health standards, especially after environmental disasters.
Central Regional Manager of Zoomlion, Noah Addo Opey, confirmed the exercise's purpose to media. He stated the intervention would reduce health risks from post-flood contamination. Mr Opey explained that disinfecting public toilets, school libraries, market stalls, and refuse sites eliminates contaminants. This action significantly reduces the transmission of pathogens that thrive in flood-affected environments.
Mr Opey elaborated on the expected health benefits, stating the exercise would reduce exposure to bacteria and viruses. It also lowers the likelihood of diarrhoeal and respiratory infections. Furthermore, it limits vector-borne diseases such as malaria and cholera in flood-affected communities. He urged residents to maintain high environmental hygiene standards to sustain these gains.
The operation began in Cape Coast at the Kwamena Walker Avenue public toilet. A 10-member spraying team, including two female operatives, conducted the initial phase. The team subsequently moved to refuse container sites, dump sites, school libraries, and other public spaces. These areas included the Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem Municipality (KEEA) and the Abura-Asebu-Kwamankese District (AAK).
Representing the Central Regional Minister, Regional Environmental Officer William Goku assured the RCC's full support. He described the exercise as an important intervention to prevent post-flood disease outbreaks. Mr Goku encouraged residents to actively participate and maintain proper hygiene practices in their homes and workplaces. He also urged communities to regularly clean their surroundings and cooperate with local authorities.
James Arthur, Assemblyman for Pedu-Abakadze in Cape Coast North, welcomed the exercise. He described it as timely, given the floods' impact on homes and public spaces. Mr Arthur noted the spraying and clean-up would provide temporary relief while longer-term recovery measures proceed. He called on residents to comply with sanitation directives and support Zoomlion's teams.
This disinfection effort highlights the government's proactive approach to public health management. It demonstrates a commitment to preventing disease outbreaks following natural disasters. The collaboration between private companies and public institutions is crucial for effective disaster response. Continued public cooperation will be essential for the exercise's long-term success and community health.