Parliamentary Committee Pushes for Dedicated Sanitation Fund
A parliamentary committee is pushing for a dedicated sanitation fund in Ghana. This is a strategic move. It aims to solve the country’s waste management crisis. The fund would also ensure reliable payments for private sector providers. John Kwabena Oti Bless chairs the committee. He stressed the need for a permanent funding mechanism. He stated that “waste generation is a daily problem.”
With a dedicated sanitation fund, the government could pay service providers like Zoomlion Ghana Ltd. promptly. It would also help clear outstanding debts. Mr. Oti Bless made these remarks after a tour. He visited Zoomlion’s waste treatment facilities in Tamale. The tour included the Integrated Recycling and Compost Plant (IRECOP). He also saw a Wastewater Treatment Plant. Both facilities show significant private investments in sanitation.
Effective waste management systems have dedicated funding. This is true across the globe. Without financial support, paying providers becomes a huge challenge. That is the situation Ghana currently faces. Mr. Oti Bless called on all stakeholders to collaborate. He praised Zoomlion’s work. The situation in the Northern Region would be worse without them.
Furthermore, Mr. Oti Bless urged the government to provide incentives. These would be for businesses that invest in environmental projects. He believes the government cannot solve the challenges alone. He referenced a recent visit. A Burkinabé delegation visited a Zoomlion plant. This shows the importance of these facilities. He also said the private sector drives sanitation. He called for stronger collaboration.
Finally, Mr. Oti Bless highlighted the need for an attitudinal change. He urged citizens to stop indiscriminate dumping. People must use the waste bins provided. The push for a dedicated sanitation fund is a long-term solution. It will ensure sustainable sanitation services. This fund will provide the financial infrastructure needed for a cleaner Ghana.
Source: Daily Graphic
