Giant Billboards: A Nuisance to Residents and a Threat to Safety

Accra, the vibrant capital of Ghana, is a city of contrasts, where modernity meets tradition at every corner. However, amidst its bustling streets and towering skyscrapers, there’s an omnipresent feature that often draws the ire of its residents: giant billboards.

While billboards are a common sight in urban landscapes, the sheer size and proliferation of these structures in Accra have transformed them from advertising mediums to significant nuisances.

Three years ago, The Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) in collaboration with the Advertising Association of Ghana (AAG) issued a 14-day ultimatum for the removal of over 50 unauthorised billboards in the Greater Accra Region.

The initiative was part of the “Let’s Make Accra Work” project aimed at ensuring sanity in the nations capital.

Again, in 2017, Patrick Yeboah, a 28-year-old level 200 student of Zenith University College, became a victim to a billboard that fell.

Originally intended as advertising mediums to promote products and services, billboards have morphed into intrusive fixtures that dominate Accra’s skyline. What were once mere advertising tools have now become symbols of excess and visual pollution, overshadowing the city’s natural beauty and architectural heritage.

Whether driving along the congested streets or walking through bustling neighborhoods, residents are constantly bombarded with larger-than-life advertisements competing for their attention. These towering structures not only obstruct scenic views but also disrupt the city’s visual harmony, detracting from its overall appeal.

Moreover, the omnipresence of giant billboards poses significant safety hazards, particularly on Accra’s already congested roads. Motorists find themselves distracted by the flashy advertisements, leading to an increase in accidents and traffic congestion. The incessant glare of illuminated billboards at night further compounds these risks, creating a hazardous environment for drivers and pedestrians alike.

While billboards serve as essential advertising tools, their unchecked proliferation in Accra has transformed them into a significant nuisance for residents. Addressing the issues posed by giant billboards requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders to preserve the city’s cultural heritage, enhance road safety, and promote sustainable urban development.