Major parts of the Greater Accra region and 6 other regions on Friday, July 10, 2026, came alive with a nationwide cleanup exercise as President John Dramani Mahama, Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, government officials, Members of Parliament, ministers, mayors, security agencies, and residents joined efforts to restore areas affected by the recent floods.
The exercise was organised following the heavy rains and flooding that hit parts of the country on June 29, with the government declaring Friday, July 10, and Saturday, July 11, as National General Cleaning Days for seven affected regions.
In Accra, communities that recorded significant impact from the floods saw large-scale sanitation activities, including the removal of accumulated waste, desilting of gutters, clearing of drainage channels, and cleaning of public spaces.
President Mahama and Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang participated in the exercise alongside other state officials, while ministers, Members of Parliament, metropolitan, municipal and district chief executives (MMDCEs), and local authorities supervised cleanup activities in various parts of the capital. Accompanying the President were Greater
Accra Regional Minister Linda Ocloo and Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong, Executive Chairman of the Jospong Group, whose flagship company, Zoomlion Ghana Limited, deployed massive logistics for the operation. Their presence underscored a unified front between government and private sector leadership in tackling the nation’s sanitation crisis.
The exercise also focused on addressing issues contributing to flooding, with authorities clearing blocked waterways and removing unauthorised structures built along drainage channels. Some structures were demolished as part of efforts to open up waterways and improve the movement of rainwater.
Major areas of Accra affected by the floods saw increased activity as sanitation workers, volunteers, and residents worked together to clear refuse and restore affected communities.
To ensure compliance and participation, security agencies were deployed across the city. Personnel monitored the exercise, ensuring that businesses remained closed and encouraging traders and residents to take part in the cleanup.
Speaking to the media, President Mahama described the June 29 floods as a “wake-up call” for citizens to change their behaviour and take greater environmental responsibility. He lamented the disturbing items found in the Alajo drain, part of the Odaw stream, including silt, plastics, household waste, engine blocks, old furniture, and even dining tables.
“One, we must change our attitudes and stop the reckless dumping of things into the drain. The drains are not garbage instruments. If you want to dispose of something, you know how to dispose of it,” the President said
The government says the exercise is part of broader efforts to improve sanitation and reduce the risk of future flooding, especially ahead of expected heavy rains.
