The Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council has denied reports that it authorized the sale of livestock on the Kanda Highway, road medians, and other principal streets in Accra, describing the claims as inaccurate and misleading.
In a press release dated May 29, the Council said neither it nor the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, had granted permission to any individual, group, or association to sell livestock on the Kanda Highway, road medians, or any major street within the region.
“The reports are therefore inaccurate, misleading, and do not reflect the position of the Regional Coordinating Council,” the statement said.
The Council said it issued the clarification after media reports, including publications and broadcasts by news outlets, alleged that it had approved the practice.
According to the Council, it had instead taken steps to address the growing presence of livestock sellers along the Kanda Highway and other major roads after becoming aware of the activity.
It said a stakeholder engagement was convened involving officials of the Ayawaso East Municipal Assembly, traditional authorities, livestock operators and other stakeholders to discuss the issue.
“At the meeting, serious concerns were raised regarding the safety implications of the practice, including the risk posed to motorists, pedestrians and the animals themselves, as well as its adverse effect on traffic flow and the orderly use of public spaces,” the statement said.
The Council said operators were subsequently directed to remove their livestock from the affected locations and relocate their activities to more suitable and designated areas.
“It is therefore unfortunate and surprising that reports have emerged suggesting that the Regional Coordinating Council sanctioned an activity which it has actively engaged stakeholders to address and discontinue,” the statement added.
The Council called on media organisations that carried the reports to correct what it described as the erroneous impression created by their coverage and provide the public with accurate information.
It further advised the public to disregard claims that the Council had authorized the sale of livestock on the Kanda Highway, road medians, or any principal streets in the Greater Accra Region.
The Regional Coordinating Council reaffirmed its commitment to public safety, environmental sanitation, and the orderly management of public spaces across the region.
