Local Government Minister, Ahmed Ibrahim, has emphasised the importance of turning challenges into opportunities, noting that what seems like a setback can actually become a catalyst for growth.
The Minister made this remark in reference to Zoomlion Ghana Limited’s decision to expand its operations across Africa following the discontinuation of its waste management contract with the Government of Ghana.
The contract, which was between Zoomlion and the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), expired and was not renewed by the government.
It had been in existence since 2006, expired in September 2024 after a six-month extension. President John Dramani Mahama’s administration decided not to renew the contract, citing concerns over exploitation of workers and mismanagement.
Zoomlion clarified that the contract’s expiration doesn’t constitute a termination or cancellation by the government and expressed support for the government’s push towards competitive procurement for future sanitation contracts.
The government also announced plans to audit payments and verify claims related to the expired contract, with Zoomlion pledging full cooperation. The company has also welcomed the government’s intention to improve remuneration for sanitation workers.
Meanwhile, Zoomlion continued to make strides in waste management, exploring opportunities beyond Ghana’s borders.
Speaking at the Jospong Group of Companies’ Annual Thanksgiving Service at Adjiringano on Friday, December 12, 2025, the Local Government Minister revealed that Zoomlion now operates in 25 out of the 54 nations in Africa.
According to him, the ended government contract actually pushed the company to expand beyond the jurisdiction of the state.
“When difficult times come, you’re forced to look within and without. In 2025 alone, you’ve gotten 25 countries (including Ghana). If you were to be allowed in your comfortable zone, you would have [remained] in Ghana and be a national champion. Now we forced you, you’re now a continental champion,” the Minister stated.
According to him, “one of the greatest achievements worth celebrating today is Jospong’s continuous international expansion,” he stated, stressing the need to celebrate company’s strides in the industry.
“Tell me, which Ghanaian company has a commanding presence in 25 African countries? Which company? No other company, so we have every cause to celebrate the faithfulness of God.”
He continued that the feat is “historic and inspirational”, saying the achievement is “a loud statement to the world that Ghanaian excellence, when guided by vision, discipline, kingdom values and ethical principles, can stand tall anywhere in the world.”
He noted that after being an MP for 17 years and 10 years on the Local Government Committee overseeing waste management, Jospong’s investments in the sector rival those abroad. This, he said, has inspired other African countries to replicate Ghana’s waste management model.
The Minister announced government’s readiness to strengthen its past partnership with Zoomlion, saying their commitment to waste management deserves state support.
“Government remains committed to deepen this partnership so that together we can have a Ghana where cleanliness, resilience and job creation become everyday realities and not a distant aspiration,” he stated.
He noted that despite the end of the state’s contract with Zoomlion, the company has established itself as a key player in waste management, stressing the need for the government to continually support its effort to keep the nation clean.
“As Ghanaians say, he who climbs well deserves a push. Dr. Agyepong and his team are climbing well and the whole nation must continue to support and celebrate them.”
Gov’t pledges continued partnership with Zoomlion on waste management
