Els: MBN360 News
The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has introduced a new shift system for street sweepers as part of efforts to improve sanitation and operational efficiency in the capital. The announcement was made by the Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, during a meeting with sanitation workers on Wednesday, as authorities intensify measures to keep the city clean.
Under the new arrangement, street sweepers will be divided into two groups, with one team working in the morning and another in the afternoon. The revised schedule will operate within the timeframe of 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., allowing for better coordination and coverage across the city.
New Shift System Targets Efficiency and Inclusivity
Explaining the rationale behind the policy, the Mayor stated that the restructuring is intended to improve productivity while accommodating the diverse needs of workers.
“The restructuring of working hours is to better accommodate workers’ capacities while enhancing productivity,” he said.Michael Kpakpo Allotey, Mayor of Accra
According to him, the decision was informed by challenges faced by some sweepers, particularly elderly workers and those who struggle to report early in the morning.By introducing flexible shifts, the Assembly aims to maximise output while ensuring that workers can operate within conditions suited to their abilities.
The move builds on earlier sanitation initiatives by the AMA, which have increasingly focused on structured deployment of labour and improved coordination to address Accra’s waste management challenges.
Strict Enforcement and Accountability Measures
The Mayor emphasised that the new system will be strictly enforced, warning that failure to perform assigned duties will attract sanctions.
“Any sweeper who fails to carry out assigned duties risks having their salary reduced or being removed entirely from the payroll.”Accra Mayor
He stressed that the Assembly cannot continue to pay workers who are not contributing effectively, particularly when others are committed to their responsibilities.The enforcement directive signals a shift toward greater accountability within the sanitation workforce, as authorities seek to improve service delivery and maintain consistent cleaning standards across the city.
Read also:
- World Health Day 2026 in Ghana Highlights Free Primary Healthcare Plans
- Barker-Vormawor: Business Community Must Spearhead Constitutional Reforms
- Mahama Nominates Five Members to Lead Ghana’s Fiscal Council
- Politics of Tolerance: Promoting Good Governance and Development in Ghana
- Major brands exit UK music festival as Keir Starmer slams Kanye West booking
Improved Welfare and Logistics Support
While stressing discipline, the Mayor also reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to the welfare of sanitation workers. He revealed that salaries for street sweepers had recently been increased by about 100 percent, a move aimed at improving livelihoods and motivating workers to perform effectively.
He noted that the increment forms part of a broader strategy to professionalise sanitation work and attract more people into the sector.However, he emphasised that improved remuneration must be matched with improved performance.In addition, the Assembly has begun steps to address logistical challenges faced by sweepers.
The Mayor announced that brooms would be distributed to sub-metropolitan offices starting Friday for onward distribution to workers.He also assured sweepers of timely salary payments, stressing that no worker on the payroll should experience delays.
Collaboration and Supervision to Drive Results
The Mayor highlighted the importance of teamwork and regular engagement between management and workers to sustain improvements in sanitation. He disclosed that the Assembly will hold monthly meetings with street sweepers to address concerns, review performance, and improve coordination.
He further warned that supervisors will be held accountable for any lapses in sanitation standards before individual workers are sanctioned. “I will not hesitate to take decisive action if sanitation standards do not improve,” he stated.
Broader Push to Improve Sanitation in Accra
The introduction of the new shift system forms part of a broader effort by the AMA to tackle sanitation challenges in Accra, where waste management remains a major concern.The city generates significant volumes of waste daily, making effective street cleaning and public cooperation essential to maintaining a clean environment.
Authorities have in recent months intensified clean-up exercises, enforcement of sanitation by-laws, and public education campaigns to address littering and improper waste disposal.
Outlook for Sanitation Reforms
The new shift system is expected to improve efficiency, enhance worker productivity, and ensure more consistent street cleaning across the capital. However, its success will depend on effective implementation, worker compliance, and sustained supervision.
As Accra continues to grapple with sanitation challenges, the AMA’s latest intervention signals a more structured and accountability-driven approach to urban cleanliness.If properly enforced, the initiative could contribute significantly to improving environmental conditions and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.
