GARCC Distances Regional Minister from Billboard Regulation Exercise

The Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council (GARCC) has clarified that the ongoing removal and standardisation of billboards across the Greater Accra Region forms part of a nationwide regulatory exercise and is not a directive initiated by the Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo.

The clarification follows concerns raised on February 13, 2026, by the Advertising Association of Ghana (AAG) over the demolition of several outdoor advertising structures in parts of the capital. The association appealed to President John Dramani Mahama and the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs to step in and ensure order within the sector.

In its statement, the AAG criticised what it described as insufficient engagement with key stakeholders, particularly operators in the outdoor advertising industry, before the exercise began. It also expressed dissatisfaction with the absence of a clearly communicated roadmap detailing timelines, phased implementation strategies, compliance guidelines, and enforcement procedures.

Furthermore, the association alleged inconsistencies in enforcement and suggested that certain removals appeared selective. It argued that political interests or individuals with stakes in the advertising industry could be influencing aspects of the process.

However, GARCC has firmly rejected suggestions that the Regional Minister authorised or directed any targeted action against specific operators. According to the Council, the exercise is being conducted under the authority of the Ministry through a Technical Committee on the Regulation and Standardisation of Outdoor Signage. It emphasised that the initiative is part of a broader institutional reform being implemented nationwide rather than a regional undertaking.

The Council explained that Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) are legally mandated to regulate outdoor signage within their jurisdictions. This responsibility includes issuing notices to non-compliant operators and removing structures that fail to meet safety, structural, or permitting standards.

GARCC stressed that enforcement decisions are primarily driven by public safety concerns, particularly where billboards pose hazards to motorists, pedestrians, or public infrastructure. It cautioned that attributing the exercise to the Regional Minister distorts the governance framework and undermines public understanding of regulatory processes.