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Mayor of Accra sensitises traders on Monkeypox; urges compliance with
The Mayor of Accra, Hon. Michael Kpakpo Allotey, has cautioned traders operating within the Central Business District (CBD) to strictly adhere to the Assembly’s red line policy and maintain proper hygiene in the wake of rising public health concerns, including the threat of monkeypox.
Speaking during a tour of the metropolis on Friday, to continue the reintroduction of the redline policy along the key routes, including the ECG Junction to Ghana School of Law, the Shopping Mall opposite the King Tackie Tawiah Statue, Makola 31st (Kojo Thompson Avenue), and Kinbu Street (Tudu), Mayor Kpakpo Allotey cautioned the traders against selling on road shoulders and obstructing vehicular movement.
“I’m begging you, please position yourself well, that’s all we want,” the Mayor told traders, stressing that their safety is at risk.
“Right now, there are diseases like monkeypox out there, and if you’re not careful and you contract it, there’s no medicine,” he added.
He expressed his displeasure at the unsanitary conditions created by some traders and urged them to clean their trading areas immediately after generating waste.
“This woman has made a lot of rubbish here; I am supposed to sack her. Clean the place as soon as you make the rubbish so that we don’t fall sick. Let’s live peacefully together, change your behaviour, please,” he said.
Mayor Allotey emphasised that his intention was not to oppress traders but to protect lives and restore order.
“The President did not assign me to come and disturb you, and also, he doesn’t want any problems,” he said.
“We have only one Ghana. If I don’t see to it and Ghana gets destroyed, you people will say that when the new Mayor came, he was a liar and a lazy person,” he continued.
Reaffirming his commitment to fairness and dialogue, the Mayor said, “No one came here to sack somebody. They didn’t give us power to oppress you. Our president, John Mahama, is not like that”.
He communicates with us behind closed doors before we come out. He said it’s humans we’re going to look after. Humans are not animals. If you’re doing something with them, you have to engage.”
He warned that sensitisation would soon be over from next week, stressing that “Whenever I come around and you have gone contrary to my words, I am going to seize your items and donate them to the Prison Service and the orphanage.”
The Mayor assured the traders that the pavement and streets have not been sold to any individual, warning against unauthorised occupation while reiterating the Assembly’s commitment to reintroduce the red lines policy to guide traders on where they can lawfully operate, stating, “When you arrange yourself well, we’ll come and mark the line.”
He called on traders to cooperate, make space, and support the city’s quest to restore order and improve public safety.
President John Dramani Mahama has held bilateral talks with the President of South Korea, Lee Jae Myung, reaffirming the strong ties and shared values that continue to define relations between Ghana and South Korea.
During the discussions, President Mahama highlighted the historic connection between the two nations, noting their common commitment to democracy, human rights, and a shared historical experience.
He emphasised the opportunities for deeper cooperation, stating that Ghana’s rich natural and human resources, combined with Korea’s technological expertise and innovation, present a strong foundation for a mutually beneficial partnership.
The President also underscored Ghana’s strategic role within the African market through the African Continental Free Trade Area, whose secretariat is headquartered in Accra, positioning the country as a gateway for production and exports into a market of over 1.4 billion people.
President Lee Jae Myung, in his remarks, described Ghana as a country that holds a special place in the hearts of many Koreans, highlighting decades of cooperation in areas such as maritime security, trade, and agriculture.
He also reflected on the longstanding cultural and economic connection symbolised by the popular “Ghana” chocolate brand made from Ghanaian cocoa, which has been enjoyed in Korea for over five decades.
Both leaders expressed optimism about expanding people-to-people exchanges, cultural engagement, and economic collaboration, with President Lee noting that President Mahama’s visit provides a timely opportunity to deepen practical cooperation that will directly benefit the citizens of both nations.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been informed by the relevant authorities in the United Arab Emirates that two Ghanaian nationals sustained injuries following a drone incident in the vicinity of Dubai International Airport earlier today, March 11, 2026.
Against this backdrop, the Government of Ghana has strongly condemned any act that endangers civilian lives and critical infrastructure.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today, March 11, such incidents pose serious risks to public safety and underscore the importance of ensuring the protection of civilians and vital international transport hubs.
Ghana’s Ambassador in the United Arab Emirates has led a delegation of the Embassy in Abu Dhabi and Consulate in Dubai to visit the two injured Ghanaians in hospital.
Their injuries are not critical and are expected to fully recover soon.
“We therefore urge calm as we continue to extend consular assistance and collaborate closely with host authorities,” the statement added.
The Ministry has revealed that they are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to engage with the appropriate authorities as required.
The Government of Ghana expresses its concern over the incident and conveys its thoughts to the injured individuals and their families.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterates the Government of Ghana’s commitment to the protection and welfare of Ghanaian citizens wherever they may be.
The Government of Ghana is actively supporting ongoing consultations within the UN to pass a resolution seeking a cessation of hostilities.
According to the Ministry they are offering the necessary leadership and coordination with Ghana’s diplomatic Missions and will provide updates on the matter as and when the need arises.
Government has reiterated its call for Nationals in the Gulf region to always exercise heightened vigilance and comply with directives from Ghanaian Embassies and local authorities.
