Tema Metro Assembly Demolishes Unauthorised Structures to Restore Order

Led by the Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE), Ebi Bright, the Assembly has also designated certain public spaces as security zones, barring the erection of temporary structures. These include the premises of schools, health facilities, security institutions, and utility service corridors.

Speaking on Saturday, October 4, 2025, during a clean-up exercise held as part of the National Sanitation Day initiative, Ms Bright explained that the directive aligns with the Local Governance Act, 2016 (Act 936), the Land Use and Spatial Planning Act, 2016 (Act 925), and TMA bye-laws on unauthorised development.

The exercise, which took place across all electoral areas of the metropolis, saw Assembly Members, supported by security personnel, supervising the demolition of illegal structures. Shops and commercial transport operators were also temporarily barred from operating until 12 noon to facilitate the exercise.

Community Involvement

Ms Bright urged residents to take ownership of their environment and maintain cleanliness to promote a healthier and more sustainable city. She assured traders that the Assembly was developing a fair and transparent regularisation programme to safeguard livelihoods while ensuring proper urban planning.

“This initiative is not about punishment but about fairness and order,” she stated. “Tema must grow in an organised and orderly way. We value the right to trade and work, but lawlessness cannot be allowed to destroy our city.”

She further appealed to the public to desist from putting up unauthorised structures, stressing that the Assembly’s ultimate goal is to create a modern, orderly industrial hub.

Tackling Apathy

The Metropolitan Coordinating Director, John Nana Owu, acknowledged that some residents had shown apathy towards sanitation and demolition exercises, attributing it to limited stakeholder engagement. He said the Assembly would intensify community sensitisation and stakeholder collaboration to encourage active participation in future initiatives.

He emphasised that cleanliness is a personal responsibility and called on residents to actively support the Assembly’s efforts.

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