The Municipal Chief Executive for the Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem (KEEA) Municipality, Ismail Zagoon Saeed, has expressed strong displeasure over what he describes as the failure of engineers to prevent residents from constructing stores on drainage channels in Elmina.
He raised the concern while leading a demolition exercise targeting structures built on drains as part of efforts to clear blocked waterways and improve sanitation in the township.
According to the MCE, the situation has worsened due to the encroachment of drains by traders, with many structures being erected directly on drainage paths, contributing to severe blockages.
He disclosed that a taskforce has been established to arrest sanitation offenders, including individuals who have converted drainage spaces into commercial structures.
The demolition exercise formed part of an ongoing clean-up operation in Elmina, where drains were found heavily choked with plastic waste, particularly bottles, significantly affecting water flow.
The Assembly Member for the Nixis Garden–Boa Woho Bridge electoral area, Felix Ofori Boafo, also expressed concern about the recurring flooding in the community during heavy rains.
He noted that efforts to mobilize residents for communal labour have been largely unsuccessful, while limited logistics and tools continue to hamper sanitation activities.
He further attributed poor sanitation practices to political interference, alleging that authorities are often reluctant to sanction offenders for fear of losing political support during elections.
The KEEA MCE has indicated that strict enforcement measures will be pursued to address the situation and restore proper drainage systems in the municipality.
