The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has announced a decision to double the monthly allowance of its street sweepers, increasing the stipend from GH₵400 to GH₵800.

This bold fiscal move, revealed by the Mayor of Accra, Michael Nii Kpakpo Allotey, is designed to professionalise the sanitation sector and provide a more liveable wage for the workers responsible for the capital's hygiene.

In an interview with Citi News, the Mayor emphasised that the 100 per cent increment is a strategic attempt to lure the vibrant youth population into the sanitation workforce.

By making these roles more financially attractive, the AMA aims to tackle urban unemployment while simultaneously addressing the mounting waste challenges in the metropolis.

The wage hike coincides with the metropolitan-wide rollout of the government's flagship 24-Hour Economy policy.

Under this new framework, the AMA has transitioned its sanitation operations into a round-the-clock service, ensuring that waste collection and street cleaning continue throughout the night to minimise daytime traffic disruptions.

Mayor Allotey linked the success of this intensive work schedule directly to the welfare of the staff.

“When you are a leader, and you want people to work well, you need to make sure the salaries they take home are fair. We thank God His Excellency John Mahama has introduced the 24-Hour Economy, which is helping AMA operate 24/7,” the Mayor stated.

The AMA's decision sets a new benchmark for municipal assemblies across Ghana. With national inflation currently stabilising at 3.8%, the Mayor believes that providing a competitive entry-level wage of GH₵800 will significantly reduce the desperation that often leads young people into informal or hazardous work.

Mayor Allotey urged his counterparts in other districts and municipalities to adopt similar upward adjustments to their payrolls to stimulate local economies.

“I am telling them that we are increasing their salary from GH₵400 to GH₵800. That will bring in more youth. I think it is a good thing, and I hope my colleagues do the same to reduce unemployment,” he added.