A coconut seller, Prince Nyame, has been fined GH¢360 by the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) Sanitation Court for dumping coconut husks into a public drain behind Accra Academy at Bubuashie. The court, presiding over the case, imposed the fine following a conviction on Tuesday, July 25, 2026, after the AMA officials, supported by security personnel, arrested him. The incident occurred after Nyame was found guilty of violating the AMA 2017 Sanitation By-Laws.
According to the Head of Public Affairs at the AMA, Gilbert Nii Ankrah, Nyame initially pleaded not guilty when appearing before the court. However, after a subsequent hearing, he changed his plea, leading to the court’s conviction. The court’s decision reflects a significant consequence of the offense, resulting in a three-month prison term in default.
The case originated with AMA officials who discovered Nyame disposing of a large quantity of coconut husks into a drain along the Accra Academy wall. This blatant disregard for proper waste management practices has been identified as a major contributor to blocked drainage systems, escalating flooding risks, and diminished sanitation within the capital city. The AMA has emphasized the daily generation of waste by coconut sellers and stresses the importance of responsible waste disposal through approved waste management providers.
The Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, underscored the severity of the situation, stating that indiscriminate disposal of coconut husks and other solid waste into drains constitutes a significant offense under the Assembly’s sanitation regulations. He added that the AMA will intensify monitoring and enforcement operations across the metropolis to identify and prosecute individuals who dump waste at unauthorized locations. Mr. Allotey also urged coconut sellers and other food vendors to provide appropriate waste containers and arrange for regular waste evacuation from their businesses.
Furthermore, Sedina Tamakloe-Attionu’s acquittal, expressed by Manasseh Azure, highlights the ongoing challenges in addressing this issue. The case serves as a stark reminder of the need for diligent waste management and the potential for significant penalties for environmental violations.
The fine of GH¢360 represents a tangible consequence for Nyame’s actions, reinforcing the AMA’s commitment to maintaining clean and healthy urban environments. The incident underscores the importance of proper waste disposal procedures to prevent further issues and ensure public safety in Accra.
This case highlights the importance of robust waste management infrastructure and the accountability of individuals responsible for waste disposal. The AMA is implementing stricter monitoring and enforcement measures to protect the city’s environment. Residents are urged to report any instances of illegal dumping to the Assembly to contribute to a cleaner and healthier Accra.
Key details include:
* **Date of Incident:** Tuesday, July 25, 2026
* **Location:** Bubuashie, Accra Academy, Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA)
* **Conviction:** Guilty of violating the AMA 2017 Sanitation By-Laws
* **Fine Amount:** GH¢360
* **Sentence:** Three-month prison term in default
* **Judge:** presiding over the case
* **AMA Spokesperson:** Gilbert Nii Ankrah
* **Source:** Adom Online
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Source: Adom Online
