Accra: The Minister for Local Government, Mahama Ayariga, has announced plans by the government to introduce a regulated waste collection system that could eventually replace the widely used aboboya system. The proposed system will involve specially designed waste collection vehicles and an electronic payment platform aimed at making household waste collection more efficient and transparent.
According to Ghana Web, Ayariga discussed these plans during an appearance on the Citi Breakfast Show. He stated that the government is considering the introduction of purpose-built vehicles that can collect waste from households and automatically load and discharge it at designated transfer stations. The vehicles would then transport the waste to transfer stations, where larger trucks would take it to landfill sites for final disposal.
The Minister revealed that discussions had already been held with the Finance Minister regarding funding for the procurement of these vehicles once the system is ready. Ayariga emphasized the government's commitment by stating, "So I've discussed with the Finance Minister; he says he's willing to invest in those ones when those ones come, you can now replace that."
Additionally, Ayariga disclosed that the government is collaborating with banks and fintech companies to develop an electronic payment system for household waste collection. Households would be able to pay for waste collection electronically through platforms such as mobile money, which would introduce a more structured payment method for waste collection operators. Waste collected by the operators would be weighed at the transfer stations, with payments linked to the actual volume of waste collected.
The Minister highlighted that this approach would enhance accountability in the waste management process. As part of the plan, the government intends to construct transfer stations near communities, ensuring that each station is within a maximum distance of five kilometers. Ayariga noted that this measure aims to make waste disposal more convenient for collection operators and improve the overall management of household waste, particularly in major cities.