The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, has announced plans to overhaul Ghana’s waste management system, with government focusing on improved waste collection, transportation, treatment and financing.
Mr. Ayariga made the announcement after an early-morning inspection of waste management facilities in Accra with officials from the Ministry and a delegation from the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA).
The Minister said Ghana’s sanitation challenges are largely the result of poor organisation rather than a lack of technology.
He said government intends to introduce proper waste separation at the household level, improve the availability of waste bins and establish transfer stations closer to communities.
“Treatment and composting facilities are also expected to be developed closer to urban centres to reduce the long distances travelled by waste collectors,” he said.
Mr. Ayariga said the inspection provided an opportunity to assess the existing waste management infrastructure and identify areas that require investment.
Ayariga pushes polluter-pays principle
The Minister further insisted that people and businesses operating in Accra must contribute to the cost of managing the waste they generate.
He said the District Assemblies Common Fund should not be relied on to finance waste management in Accra, arguing that resources meant for other parts of the country should not be used to support the lifestyle of people living in the capital.
He called for effective collection of basic rates, property rates, market rates and sewage levies to strengthen the financial capacity of assemblies.
According to him, better organisation of the waste management system could significantly reduce the cost paid by households.
BADEA pledges support
Vice President of BADEA, Dr. Fatima El Sheik, who joined the inspection, expressed confidence in Ghana’s efforts to improve the waste management value chain.
She said waste management goes beyond sanitation, creating opportunities for employment and livelihoods while contributing to environmental protection.
Dr. El Sheik said BADEA is prepared to support Ghana’s efforts to develop a more efficient waste management system, describing Accra as an important hub on the continent.
Mr. Ayariga also announced plans for a national campaign against sanitation indiscipline, stressing that his administration at the Ministry will prioritise enforcement and accountability.
He said his goal is not popularity, but to ensure that people are uncomfortable engaging in practices that undermine sanitation and responsible waste management.
