President John Dramani Mahama has strongly urged Ghanaians to stop the indiscriminate dumping of refuse into drains.

Speaking during the first day of the two-day nationwide clean-up exercise on Friday, July 10, 2026, the president said the discovery of engine blocks, old furniture, dining tables and other household items in the Alajo drain underscored the need for a change in public attitudes.

"Engine blocks, old furniture, dining tables, everything you can find in that drain.

"We must change our attitudes, and stop the reckless dumping of things into the drain. The drains are not garbage instruments."

The nationwide exercise was directed by the president following the devastating floods of June 29, which claimed lives and caused extensive destruction in parts of the country.

The president said the exercise was intended to inspire a proactive approach to environmental sanitation, he utilised a local proverb to make his point.

"We're not going to be like the vulture who says when the rain stops, he will repair his roof, and when the rain stops, he [then] says there's no need to repair it. And so we must clear the drains," he said.

He encouraged citizens to make use of rubbish containers provided across the city.

As part of the clean-up exercise, shops across the country were directed to remain closed until 1:00 p.m. to enable traders and the public to participate.

Local assemblies, Members of Parliament, corporate organisations, political office holders and residents joined the exercise to clear refuse, desilt drains and improve sanitation in their communities.

The president noted that with better sanitation practices, Ghana could enjoy a better, safer and healthier future, avoiding climate-related disasters.

"The floods have been devastating but we must show we are a resilient and we can bounce back even better," he said.

The clean-up exercise continues on Saturday as part of efforts to reduce flood risks and improve environmental sanitation across the country.