The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) has introduced a new policy aimed at reducing excessive salt consumption in food establishments across the city.
The policy, announced by Mayor Richard Ofori-Agyemang Boadi, prohibits the open display of salt on dining tables in restaurants, chop bars, and other food outlets.
The move is part of efforts to tackle the growing incidence of hypertension among residents, which affects up to 37.4% of the population in the Ashanti Region.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Ghana’s average daily salt intake is nearly double the recommended amount, ranging between 8-10 grams per person.
“Hypertension is no longer a distant health concern; it is affecting families and productive lives across Kumasi,” Mayor Boadi said.
“By addressing everyday risk factors such as the routine availability of salt on dining tables, we are taking a practical and preventive step to protect the health of our residents.”
The policy is based on a 2025 study by KMA, which found that 62% of food establishments openly displayed salt on tables or counters, enabling customers to add extra salt to meals already prepared with salt.
The implementation of the policy will include public education campaigns, stakeholder engagement, and guidelines for food vendors.
Health promotion materials and advisories on responsible salt consumption will also be introduced in food establishments.
Kumasi’s approach has attracted international recognition, with the city joining the Partnership for Healthy Cities, a global network of cities committed to preventing non-communicable diseases.
Our goal is not to restrict choice but to create an environment that makes the healthy choice the easy choice,” Mayor Boadi said.
“With collective support, Kumasi can take a significant step forward in reducing hypertension and safeguarding the well-being of our people.”
By 1960news.com
