The Kwadaso Municipal Assembly in the Ashanti Region has stepped up its sanitation enforcement drive, with 30 residents currently facing prosecution for various sanitation-related offences.
The exercise forms part of efforts by the Assembly to improve waste management and ensure strict compliance with environmental sanitation by-laws.
Speaking at the commissioning of four skip containers by the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) to enhance waste collection across the municipality, Municipal Environmental Health Officer Genevieve Anthony said enforcement has been intensified since March 2026, with offenders now routinely taken to court.
According to her, sanitation offenders are being arraigned every two weeks as part of ongoing legal enforcement.
“We started legal action by prosecuting offenders, which has resulted in several people being sent to court. Every two weeks, we take offenders to court for breaching sanitation rules as part of our enforcement efforts,” she said.
She added that while some cases have already been concluded with fines, others remain pending, with bench warrants issued for those who have failed to appear in court. Offenders have reportedly been fined amounts ranging from GH¢1,100 to GH¢3,000, with some cases also attracting custodial sentences.
So far, about 30 people have been brought before the court since the crackdown began last month.
Madam Anthony urged residents and businesses to comply fully with sanitation regulations to protect public health and maintain a clean environment.
The Municipal Chief Executive, Eric Assibey, acknowledged that weak enforcement and declining public discipline over the years have contributed to the municipality’s sanitation challenges.
He said the Assembly is rolling out several initiatives aimed at improving cleanliness and strengthening enforcement across the municipality.
Mr Assibey also issued a warning to drivers and their assistants, particularly at Sofoline, against indiscriminate dumping of waste, stressing that offenders will face sanctions.
He advised passengers to take responsibility for their waste while in transit, adding that vehicle assistants should ensure proper cleaning of vehicles after trips.
“As a passenger, if you eat in the vehicle, you should either keep the waste in your bag or leave it in the car for the driver’s mate to dispose of properly upon arrival,” he said.
He further cautioned that the Assembly would no longer tolerate illegal dumping, especially by transport operators, noting that sanitation offenders will be dealt with under a strict zero-tolerance policy.