The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has initiated discussions with the Advertising Association of Ghana (AAG) to enhance road safety through the strategic placement of billboards. The dialogue aims to remove obstructive advertising structures from road gantries, medians, and pedestrian walkways, ensuring safer streets for commuters and pedestrians alike.
Leading the discussions, the Director-General of the NRSA Abraham Amaliba, Esq., underscored the urgent need to prioritize pedestrian safety by eliminating billboard obstructions that hinder visibility and movement. As an initial step, billboards positioned on medians, roundabouts, and intersections will be taken down, while a permanent solution for larger advertising structures affecting pedestrian walkways and footbridges is also under review.
The AAG Executive Secretary, Mr. Isaac Cudjoe acknowledged the multiple communications from the NRSA regarding hazardous billboards and reiterated the association’s commitment to compliance, particularly in the Greater Accra Region. In response, the AAG has proposed forming a joint committee consisting of representatives from both organizations. Additionally, the institutions plan to draft a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to ensure systematic billboard regulations and enforcement.
The dialogue also highlighted the crucial role of local assemblies in implementing proper enforcement measures. Through this collaborative effort, the NRSA and AAG aim to strike a balance between road safety priorities and responsible advertising practices, marking a significant step forward in fostering a safer road environment.