A recent research study conducted in the Kumasi Metropolis has revealed that 62 percent of food service establishments openly display salt on their dining tables, a practice health experts warn can significantly increase the risk of excessive salt consumption among residents. In response, the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), supported by Partnership for Healthy Cities, has intensified a citywide sensitisation campaign to address the growing public health concern.
The latest community engagement was held on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at Atasomanso, where the Assembly organised a large durbar for food vendors, restaurant operators, hoteliers, caterers, regulatory authorities, health professionals, and traditional leaders. The gathering aimed to educate stakeholders on the dangers associated with unregulated salt use in food establishments and homes.
At the durbar, participants strongly backed the need for a policy intervention to curb the practice of placing salt openly on dining tables. This call echoes earlier recommendations made during the first stakeholders’ meeting held at Adum Amanfrom on November 27, 2025. Stakeholders at Atasomanso unanimously urged the Assembly to pass a bye-law that would prohibit the open display of salt in eateries across the metropolis.
The campaign slogan “Te nkyene no so!”—meaning “Reduce salt intake!”—resonated powerfully with the audience, who collectively raised their hands to affirm their support for healthier dietary habits within the Kumasi community.
Speaking on behalf of the Mayor, Senior Budget Analyst Mr. Jones Kani highlighted KMA’s commitment to safeguarding public health. He explained that the collaboration between KMA and Partnership for Healthy Cities is focused on reducing hypertension and other salt-related health complications by promoting more responsible salt consumption.
Presenting the research findings, Ms. Zeinab Acheampong of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) disclosed that 62 out of every 100 food establishments surveyed openly displayed salt, exposing consumers to the dangers of excessive intake. She cautioned that this widespread practice could have serious health consequences and must be addressed urgently.
Adding her voice, Dr. Patricia Darko of the Kumasi Technical University emphasised that the time had come for all stakeholders to take collective action against excessive salt consumption. She commended KMA and Partnership for Healthy Cities for their proactive efforts and urged food vendors, restaurants, and households to adopt prudent salt usage to improve public health outcomes.
From the Metro Health Directorate, Sandra Ama Pomaa Asuming elaborated on the functions of salt in the body, noting its role as a preservative, digestive aid, and supporter of muscle and nerve function. However, she cautioned that uncontrolled intake can be harmful, citing high blood pressure, nerve blockage, kidney damage, and stomach cancer as potential health risks. She reminded the public of the World Health Organization’s recommended daily salt limit of five grams.
The Convenor of the KMA Health Sub-Committee, Hon. Abraham Boadi, reiterated the Assembly’s determination to secure approval for a bye-law banning open salt display in food establishments. He stressed that reducing excessive salt intake is crucial to improving the health of residents and must be supported by both vendors and consumers.
The durbar drew several notable figures, including Hon. Abdul Samed, Assembly Member for Atasomanso; Hon. Isaac Kofi Yamoah, Assembly Member for Santasi; Mr. Silas Boadu, Nhyiaeso Sub-Metro Administrator; and Mr. Atakorah Amaniampong, Nhyiaeso Sub-Metro Environmental Health Officer, alongside traditional authorities from Atasomanso and neighbouring communities.
Nana Osei Okuradom, Nkosuohene of Atasomanso, expressed deep appreciation to KMA and Partnership for Healthy Cities for prioritising the health of the people. He assured that traditional leaders would actively support the campaign to promote responsible salt use across the community.
Participants welcomed the awareness campaign and shared their concerns about the dangers of excessive salt consumption. Many left the durbar with renewed knowledge and commitment to spreading the message on prudent and safe salt usage.
The KMA’s swift action following the alarming research findings underscores its resolve to protect the well-being of residents and promote healthier eating habits throughout the Kumasi Metropolis.
