By Edzorna Mensah
As Accra grapples with the complexities of urban development, seasoned expert and aspiring Mayor Michael Kpakpo Allotey has outlined an ambitious plan to transform the city. His comprehensive vision, built on sustainability, efficiency, and community engagement, seeks to tackle Accra’s most pressing challenges and drive its progress.
Urban Sanitation and Waste Management
At the core of Allotey’s agenda is a commitment to improving urban sanitation and waste management. To achieve this, he plans to launch a “Clean Accra Initiative” within his first 100 days in office.
This initiative will feature: Monthly community clean-ups to promote a culture of environmental responsibility; Partnerships with waste management companies for improved garbage collection; A Digital Waste Management Reporting App to streamline waste disposal; A pilot recycling hub to encourage sustainable waste practices; A waste management reward system to incentivise proper waste disposal.
Traffic and Transportation Improvements
Addressing Accra’s traffic congestion is another key priority. Allotey’s plan includes: Deploying a Task Force on Traffic Decongestion at major intersections; Improving parking zones in commercial areas, with a focus on accessibility for people with disabilities; Collaborating with the police for effective traffic management; Outsourcing parking system management to private firms for efficiency.
Revenue Generation and Economic Growth
To boost the city’s finances and support development, Allotey proposes: Introducing a digital revenue collection system to enhance efficiency and transparency; Expanding the tax base to increase internally generated funds; Revising outdoor advertising fees to optimize revenue; Promoting tourism initiatives to attract investment and boost local businesses.
Youth and Business Empowerment
Allotey’s vision also focuses on economic empowerment through: Organizing a Youth Job and Entrepreneurship Fair to connect young people with job opportunities; Setting up a Business Support Desk to assist startups and small businesses; Revitalizing local markets to enhance trade and economic activity.
Healthcare and Social Services
Allotey plans to strengthen health and social services by: Facilitating the supply of essential resources to community clinics; Launching Health Awareness Campaigns to educate residents on preventive care; Establishing partnerships with private hospitals to improve healthcare access.
“We will work closely with private and government agencies to implement these initiatives and ensure sustainable development for Accra,” Allotey stated.
If elected, his strategic plan promises to reshape Accra into a cleaner, more efficient, and economically vibrant city.