Ghana Institute of Architects Call for Better Urban Planning and Sanitation at Media Engagement
The Ghana Institute of Architects has called for urgent action to improve urban planning, sanitation, and building practices across the country.
This came during a media engagement programme held under the theme “Navigating Urban Development and Regulatory Compliance: Lessons from the East Legon Flyover Controversy.” The event, also branded as “Against The Wall,” created a platform for open discussion, where key stakeholders were made to respond directly to pressing issues affecting Ghana’s cities.
Speaking to the media, the President of the Institute, Tony Asare, explained that the initiative was designed to hold city authorities accountable while encouraging honest conversations on urban development.
According to him, the programme places officials “against the wall” to answer tough questions about how cities are managed. He noted that issues such as poor sanitation, weak urban planning, and bad building practices continue to affect the appearance and functionality of cities like Accra.
Mr. Asare pointed out that sanitation remains a major challenge, citing poor attitudes towards waste disposal as a key problem. He said many people dispose of waste indiscriminately, especially plastic waste, without considering the impact on the environment.
He also highlighted gaps in infrastructure, including the lack of enough dustbins, inefficient waste collection systems, and limited recycling facilities. He stressed that these issues must be addressed through continuous public education and strong policy direction.
“We will continue these conversations and make sure they influence policy,” he said, adding that the programme will be held regularly and supported by media discussions to keep the issue alive.
Also speaking at the event, the Dean of Greater Accra Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), John Desmond Sowah Nai, commended the Institute for the initiative.
He called for broader stakeholder involvement, including the police, to strengthen enforcement of laws governing urban development.
Hon. Sowah Nai noted that MMDCEs have a responsibility to enforce regulations and ensure that development within their areas follows proper procedures. He referenced ongoing efforts by authorities to demolish buildings on waterways, describing it as part of a wider effort to restore order in the city.
He urged residents to follow due process when putting up structures, warning that buildings that do not comply with regulations risk demolition.
The MMDCEs’ Dean also appealed to traditional leaders to support government efforts by avoiding the sale of lands on waterways. He explained that such actions often lead to conflicts when authorities move in to remove illegal structures.
He emphasized that keeping Accra clean and well-planned is a shared responsibility, noting that the capital city serves as the first point of entry for many visitors to Ghana.
“If we make Accra clean and beautiful, then Ghana becomes clean and beautiful,” he said.
The engagement ended with a strong call for discipline, collaboration, and commitment from all stakeholders to improve the state of Ghana’s cities and create a better environment for all.
