The Ho Municipal Assembly has relaunched its monthly clean-up campaign aimed at restoring the city’s long-held image as Ghana’s “Oxygen City” and rekindling community participation in sanitation and environmental upkeep.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Mr. Stephen Adom, forms part of efforts to complement the President’s vision of a clean and healthy Ghana. It also comes ahead of the Asogli Te Za (Yam Festival), during which Ho expects a large influx of visitors.
Speaking at the launch, Mr. Adom emphasized that maintaining cleanliness was not just an aesthetic priority but a civic duty that reflected the city’s identity and leadership as both the Volta Regional and Ho Municipal capital.
“Cleanliness, beauty, and order must define our environment. As the Oxygen City, Ho must set the standard for others to follow,” he said.
The campaign’s maiden edition witnessed strong participation from schools, market women, civil society organisations, and individuals who converged on major streets, markets, and drainage areas to desilt, sweep, and clear refuse.
Mr. Lawrence Senya, the Municipal Environmental Health Officer, described the event as the start of a renewed drive to rebuild the culture of communal clean-ups that once defined the city.
“Today’s turnout has been encouraging. Though not perfect, it marks a positive beginning in our mission to bring back civic responsibility,” he said.
To ensure consistency, the Assembly has decided to hold clean-up exercises on the first Friday of every month, ahead of the National Sanitation Day. Mr. Senya explained that this schedule aligns better with the region’s social and cultural calendar, while allowing local authorities to plan more effectively.
He, however, cautioned against complacency, stressing that cleanliness should not be restricted to official days.
“Sanitation is a daily responsibility. It’s disappointing when some residents close their shops or stay indoors during these exercises. Chiefs and assembly members are empowered to enforce the by-laws, and we will apply spot fines or court actions when necessary,” he warned.
Mr. Senya expressed satisfaction with the immediate impact of the exercise, noting visible improvements in the city’s appearance.
“Our streets already look cleaner and more attractive. Ho is known for its beauty and serenity — we must protect that reputation through discipline and consistent action,” he added.
Participants said they were proud to contribute to the initiative and encouraged others to join subsequent exercises.
The Ho Municipal Assembly has vowed to sustain the monthly sanitation drive, combining enforcement with public education to build a stronger culture of cleanliness and civic pride across the municipalit
