By: Benjamin Nii Nai Anyetei
The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has launched a bold 2030 Air-Quality Response Plan to tackle dangerous spikes in pollution at key city hotspots, including Makola Market, the AMA Head Office enclave, and Agbogbloshie Market.
Recent assessments conducted by the AMA’s Public Health Department in partnership with SSP Urbania revealed that these areas consistently record alarming levels of Particulate Matter (PM₂.₅ and PM₁₀), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂), and Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂) — pollutants linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
Mayor Michael Kpakpo Allotey said the plan seeks to reduce emissions by 40% by 2030, ensure 75% compliance with environmental regulations, and establish a comprehensive monitoring system with monthly reporting of air-quality indices.
“The health of our people is at stake. Persistent exposure at these hotspots puts thousands of residents and traders at risk every day,” the Mayor warned.
The plan is built on four pillars:
Public awareness campaigns to reach at least 85% of residents.
Stricter enforcement of laws, including prosecutions and a ban on open burning of waste.
Direct source control targeting transport emissions, construction dust, and waste sites.
Continuous monitoring and reporting to guide interventions.
Pollution sources identified include vehicular traffic, dust from open surfaces, dumpsites, firewood use, light industry, and open burning of waste — all of which contribute significantly to Accra’s worsening air quality.
Mayor Allotey stressed that the AMA will sustain education, monitoring, and enforcement efforts to protect residents’ health and make Accra a safer, cleaner city by 2030.
