The Government of Ghana has released the official modalities for the nationwide post-flood cleanup exercise scheduled for Friday, July 10, and Saturday, July 11, 2026, as part of efforts to restore communities affected by recent flooding and strengthen environmental sanitation across the country. The exercise will take place daily from 6:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and is expected to mobilise government institutions, local authorities, security agencies, businesses, civil society organisations and residents in a coordinated national response.
The initiative follows severe flooding that affected several parts of Ghana, particularly in the Greater Accra Region, causing damage to homes, businesses and public infrastructure. Government says the cleanup forms part of broader efforts to reduce health risks, improve drainage systems and enhance the country’s preparedness for future heavy rains.
Nationwide Participation Expected
According to the government’s guidelines, participation is expected from:
- Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs)
- Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs)
- Security services
- Educational institutions
- Faith-based organisations
- Market associations
- Private sector institutions
- Community groups and residents
Each Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assembly will coordinate activities within its jurisdiction, while regional coordinating councils will supervise implementation to ensure an organised and effective exercise.
Focus Areas for the Cleanup
The exercise will target flood-prone and sanitation-challenged locations across the country. Priority areas include:
- Choked drains and waterways
- Streets and major roads
- Markets and commercial centres
- Beaches and coastal communities
- Public schools and health facilities
- Lorry parks and transport terminals
- Open spaces used for refuse disposal
Government says clearing these areas will help improve water flow, reduce flooding risks and minimise the spread of sanitation-related diseases.
Safety Measures During the Exercise
Participants have been advised to observe safety protocols throughout the cleanup operation. Local authorities are expected to provide logistical support, including refuse collection, transportation of waste and supervision of designated cleanup zones.
Residents are also encouraged to wear appropriate protective clothing such as gloves, boots and face masks where necessary, while avoiding unsafe structures and fast-flowing drainage channels during the exercise.
Government Calls for National Unity
The Ministry responsible for Local Government and sanitation has urged all Ghanaians to actively participate, describing the exercise as a shared national responsibility rather than solely a government initiative.
Officials believe that sustained community participation in environmental sanitation will not only help restore flood-affected communities but also contribute to preventing future disasters caused by blocked drains and indiscriminate waste disposal.
Part of a Broader Flood Response
The national cleanup exercise forms part of a wider government response to recent floods. Alongside sanitation efforts, relief support continues to be provided to affected communities through the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and development partners, while authorities intensify long-term flood mitigation and drainage improvement measures.
Government has appealed to citizens to fully support the two-day exercise, stressing that maintaining clean communities is essential for protecting public health, safeguarding infrastructure and building resilience against future flooding.
