These 10 photos show how the city of Accra has changed during the lockdown

April 6, 2020

Once a busy city filled with human, vehicular traffic and the smell of freshly baked A1 bread, Ghana’s Accra has evolved into a modern version of T. Lindsey Baker’s Ghost Towns of Texas.

Due to the effect of the novel COVID-19 virus also known as Coronavirus on Ghana and other nations, Government was compelled to issue a partial lockdown in the Greater Accra and Greater Kumasi areas to avoid the spread of the virus to the general public.

The lockdown which is in its 2nd week has seen most stay away from public spaces due to the closure of most business with the exception of Telcos, media, supermarkets, food stalls at the market among others.

Ghanaian photographers, Yaw Pare, Bob Pixel and a list of others have captured the mood of the city which is home to 1.6 million Ghanaians and foreign residents during these times.

Yaw Pare, whose works covers Ghanaian tourism, culture and lifestyle admits that the emptiness and sombre mood of the once euphoric city is unprecendented.

He wrote: “Today’s pics will focus on some busy streets, the airport, workplaces and some hotels in Accra that have been immensely affected by COVID-19. But to everyone affected in these times of uncertainty, let’s all take time to reflect on the things that matter most LIFE for it will go on after all this is said and done :)”

Pare continues: “Stay Home, Stay Strong, Stay Refreshed and most importantly happy yourself! There is a saying that goes and I quote “In Life, it’s not what happens to you but how you deal with it” 😉 This too shall pass!!!”

It is unknown how long the lockdown will continue as Ghana’s President, Nana Addo Dankwah Akufo-Addo has announced that 15,000 tests were being conducted and will inform his government’s next line of action.

Though very gloomy and sad, the lack of human presence has changed the view of Accra especially without the pollution in several forms. Perhaps this is nature’s own way of clearing the toxicity and revitalizing.

Check out the city of Accra and stay safe at home.