Kofi Bentil criticises AMA clean-up directive

Kofi Bentil, Vice President of IMANI Africa, has voiced strong criticism against the Accra Metropolitan Assembly's (AMA) order for businesses to close during a national sanitation clean-up day. The AMA had directed that all trading activities must halt between 6:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon on Saturday, August 1, 2026, to ensure participation in the August National Sanitation Day exercise.

Bentil's objection highlights concerns about the economic consequences of such a widespread shutdown. Forcing traders and businesses to cease operations for half a day can lead to significant losses, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises that rely on daily sales. The directive, intended to promote civic responsibility and environmental cleanliness, is now facing scrutiny for its potential negative impact on livelihoods.

The debate underscores a recurring tension between public service initiatives and the economic realities faced by many in Accra. While the goal of a cleaner city is widely supported, the methods employed by the AMA are being questioned for their practicality and fairness to the business community. Bentil's critique suggests a need for alternative approaches that balance sanitation efforts with economic considerations.

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His comments followed the Assembly’s announcement that all trading activities should cease from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon on Saturday, August 1, 2026