Local Government Minister proposes sanitation levy to address Ghana’s waste management crisis

Ghana faces a growing sanitation crisis. The Minister for Local Government, Ahmed Ibrahim, announced plans for a Sanitation Fund and Levy. This initiative aims to address waste management challenges across the country.

Mr. Ibrahim emphasized the need for sustainable funding. He said, “When you create a fund, you are instituting a tax.” He noted that lack of financial resources is the biggest barrier to solving sanitation issues.

The proposed levy will be discussed when Parliament reconvenes. It aims to provide stable revenue for Ghana’s struggling waste management system.

A 2023 World Bank report reveals alarming statistics. Only 21 percent of Ghanaians have access to improved sanitation facilities. Poor sanitation and hygiene cause over 17,000 deaths each year.

Ghana produces about 1.1 million metric tons of plastic waste annually. However, only 5 percent of this waste is recycled properly, according to the Ghana Plastic Action Partnership.

The rest contributes to severe environmental problems. These include clogged drains, flooding, and health hazards.

If implemented, the sanitation levy could improve waste collection services significantly. It may also enhance public cleanliness initiatives and upgrade sanitation infrastructure.

The government hopes to learn from successful models in other countries. For example, Rwanda has achieved a 90 percent waste collection rate in Kigali through strict policies and financial commitments.