A coconut seller, Prince Nyame, has been fined GHS 360 by the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) Sanitation Court. The fine was imposed for dumping coconut husks into a public drain behind Accra Academy at Bubuashie.
Nyame was convicted on Tuesday, July 25, 2026, after being found guilty of violating the AMA 2017 Sanitation By-laws. The court imposed a fine of 30 penalty units, equivalent to GHS 360, or a three-month prison term in default. This action follows his arrest by AMA officials, supported by security personnel, after he was allegedly caught disposing of a large quantity of coconut husks into the drain.
This incident reflects a broader challenge for Accra, where indiscriminate waste disposal significantly contributes to blocked drainage systems, urban flooding, and poor sanitation. The AMA has consistently highlighted the economic and public health costs associated with these issues, which disrupt daily life and strain municipal resources. The city's rapid urbanization and increasing population density exacerbate the problem, making effective waste management crucial for sustainable development.
Gilbert Nii Ankrah, Head of Public Affairs at the AMA, stated that Nyame initially pleaded not guilty. He was granted bail under court-set conditions. However, at a subsequent sitting, Nyame changed his plea to guilty, leading to his conviction and the imposition of the minimum sentence. This swift legal process demonstrates the AMA's commitment to enforcing its sanitation regulations.
The Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, emphasized that the indiscriminate disposal of coconut husks and other solid waste into drains is a major cause of blocked drainage systems. He noted that coconut sellers generate large quantities of waste daily. They must ensure proper collection, storage, and disposal through approved waste management providers. The Mayor cautioned traders against using drains, pavements, road shoulders, and other public spaces as dumping grounds. Such actions constitute offences under the Assembly’s sanitation regulations. He added that the AMA would intensify monitoring and enforcement operations across the metropolis. This will identify and prosecute persons who dispose of waste at unauthorised locations. Mr. Allotey urged coconut sellers and other food vendors to provide appropriate waste containers at their trading points. They should also arrange for regular evacuation of waste generated from their businesses. He appealed to residents to report incidents of indiscriminate dumping to the Assembly. This will support efforts to maintain a clean and healthy Accra. The AMA's continued enforcement efforts are critical for mitigating the economic impact of flooding and improving public health outcomes in the capital.