Waste Management: Gov’t to de-monopolise sectors for efficiency
Ghana’s Minister of Environment, Science, and Technology-designate, Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, has announced plans to reform the country’s waste management sector by breaking the existing monopolies held by a few companies.
During his recent parliamentary vetting, Muhammed emphasized the importance of involving local authorities and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in waste management to enhance efficiency and create job opportunities.
Muhammed stated, “I intend to demonopolize the management of waste in this country and engage local authorities and SMEs,” highlighting that this approach will empower local communities and bolster job creation. He further noted that previous parliamentary discussions recognized the capacity of local authorities to manage waste effectively. By involving SMEs at the local level, the government aims to achieve greater effectiveness and efficiency in waste management operations.
This initiative aligns with Ghana’s broader efforts to improve its waste management system. The National Solid Waste Management Strategy for Ghana, published in June 2020, advocates for developing an enforceable and tailored regulatory framework for the sector.
Such a framework would provide a basis for procurement, contracting, monitoring, and supervision of service providers across the waste management chain.
By decentralizing waste management and fostering local participation, the government aims to enhance service delivery, promote sustainable practices, and stimulate economic growth within communities.
