Poor waste management costs Ghana over GHS 6.2 billion annually. This significant financial burden results from flood damage, healthcare expenses, and environmental degradation. Stakeholders in Ghana’s sanitation sector are calling for an urgent transition from landfill-dependent systems to sustainable waste treatment infrastructure.
This shift is crucial to address persistent funding gaps. The gaps threaten efforts to maintain cleanliness and environmental safety in the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA). Rapid urbanisation and population growth place immense pressure on existing waste infrastructure.
Ghana generates approximately 4,400 tonnes of solid waste daily. This totals about 1.6 million tonnes annually, with an average collection rate of 80 percent. This daily waste generation will rise significantly over the next decade. Investment in modern treatment facilities is therefore an urgent national priority.
Ahmed Ibrahim, Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, highlighted the challenges. He stated that sustainable financing remains the biggest obstacle facing the sector. He acknowledged that waste management cannot be left solely to market forces. He cited countries like South Korea as examples of more integrated approaches.
Discussions are ongoing with the Ministry of Finance to secure dedicated funding. This funding aims to settle outstanding obligations owed to private waste management companies. The Minister urged Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to take greater responsibility. He warned that delayed payments could lead to serious environmental and public health consequences.
Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong, President of the Environmental Service Providers Association (ESPA), described reliance on landfills as outdated. All 17 landfills constructed across the country reached capacity within a decade. He stressed that modern systems should prioritise collection, transfer stations, recycling, and composting. Landfills should serve only as a last resort.
Inadequate revenue mobilisation and tariff structures also concern stakeholders. International benchmarks suggest household waste collection fees between $15 and $20 in lower-middle-income countries. However, operators in Ghana struggle with low recovery rates.
Despite these challenges, Ghana is emerging as a leader in environmental sanitation technology across Africa. The country now boasts more than 50 waste treatment and composting facilities. Ghanaian firms export their expertise to other African nations, including Kenya and Ethiopia. This success stems from sustained investments in local expertise and professional training.
Dr. Michael Mensah, Vice Dean of the MMDCEs, assured stakeholders of local authorities' commitment. They aim to improve sanitation standards. The urgency of action is underscored by research findings. They indicate poor waste management costs Ghana more than GHS 6.2 billion annually. This cost arises from flood-related destruction, healthcare expenses, and environmental degradation.
A renewed commitment to strengthening collaboration is essential. This includes government, local authorities, and private service providers. Policy discussions must translate into sustainable financing mechanisms. These mechanisms are vital for keeping Accra and the wider GAMA area clean and healthy.