Accra, Ghana – May 12, 2026 – The Outdoor Advertisers Association has petitioned the government to immediately halt the ongoing demolition of advertising signs located in road medians. The association warns that a complete ban could trigger severe economic repercussions, drawing a stark parallel to the devastating impact of Ghana’s banking sector cleanup on businesses and employment.
Concerns Over Economic Impact and Job Losses
In a formal petition submitted on May 5, 2026, the Outdoor Advertisers Association expressed grave concerns to the Deputy Chief of Staff. The memorandum, also shared with the Ministries of Roads and Highways and Local Government, calls for an immediate suspension of the demolition drive.
The association argues that the current approach, which involves the National Road Safety Authority and the Local Government Ministry, risks destroying businesses and leading to widespread job losses. Operators are facing significant uncertainty as the demolition exercise has already commenced in parts of Accra.
Members of the association have reportedly invested millions of cedis in signage infrastructure. This investment supports a broad value chain, including welders, printers, graphic designers, and installers, all of whom face potential unemployment due to the abrupt removal of these advertising structures.
Call for ‘Smart Regulation’ Over Blanket Ban
The Outdoor Advertisers Association is advocating for a shift from a total ban to what they term “smart regulation.” The petition highlights the success in regulating other sectors, stating, “If we can regulate Okadas and train miners (galamseyers) to be responsible, we can certainly regulate median signs. We don’t need a total ban; we need smart regulation.”
The group emphasizes that many of its members operate legally, possessing permits issued by various municipal assemblies, including the Accra Metropolitan Assembly. They also point out that existing contracts with corporate clients could lead to legal and financial liabilities if the signs are forcibly removed.
Disputing Road Safety Claims and Proposing Alternatives
While acknowledging the government’s focus on road safety, the association disputes the claim that median signs are a significant contributor to accidents. They argue that primary causes remain driver indiscipline, excessive speeding, mechanical failures, and pedestrian behavior.
“Available national data suggests that the primary causes of road accidents are driver indiscipline, excessive speeding, mechanical failures, and pedestrian behaviour rather than regulated signage infrastructure,” the petition states.
Instead of a blanket demolition, the association proposes a comprehensive review of signage standards. They also suggest the repositioning of potentially hazardous structures and the implementation of stricter compliance measures across the industry.
Political Affiliation and Stakeholder Dialogue
The petition also noted the association’s support for the National Democratic Congress during the 2024 general elections, positioning themselves as a “strategic partner to the State” committed to constructive dialogue.
The association’s five-point request includes the immediate suspension of demolitions, extensive stakeholder consultations, and the development of a phased relocation plan for signs deemed high-risk.
Future Outlook and Industry Watch
The outcome of this petition will be critical for the outdoor advertising industry in Ghana. Stakeholders will be watching closely to see if the government engages in dialogue and adopts a regulatory approach that balances road safety concerns with economic sustainability. The potential for legal challenges from advertisers facing contract breaches also remains a key factor to monitor. Further developments will likely hinge on the government’s response to the call for “smart regulation” and stakeholder consultations.
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