Speaking to the press during the clean-up on Saturday, October 4, 2025, the Director of Monitoring and Service Quality at Zoomlion Ghana Limited, Ernest Kusi, confirmed the company’s full backing for all municipal assemblies across the sixteen regions.

Saturday’s exercise, led by the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, and the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ibrahim Ahmed, received strong support from Zoomlion. The clean-up began at the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) headquarters and extended through the Central Business District (CBD), Kwame Nkrumah Circle, and Agbogbloshie Market, among other areas.

The exercise involved sweeping roadsides, clearing drains, and removing weeds from road medians.

Mr Kusi explained that Zoomlion’s support includes dedicated sanitation workers, compaction trucks, gloves, nose masks, and other waste management gear.

“Zoomlion is committed to supporting all Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) nationwide to ensure that the National Sanitation Day is not just a one-day event, but continues to advance the President’s Clean Ghana Agenda,” he affirmed.

“As a leader in sanitation, Zoomlion cannot sit idle; we must participate. So this morning, together with the Assembly, we are actively taking part. Our workers are sweeping, desilting drains, and weeding in designated areas assigned by the Assembly,” he added.

He revealed that the company has supplied logistics such as brooms, nose masks, gloves, compaction trucks, and skip trucks across municipalities and districts nationwide.

Beyond logistics, Mr Kusi said Zoomlion was also investing in public education, emphasizing that behavioural change was essential to the success of the initiative.

“We believe sanitation is about lifestyle change. Through our Zoom Kids Programme, we educate schoolchildren to adopt good sanitation habits from an early age so they grow up valuing cleanliness,” he stated.

He also called on assemblies to enforce sanitation bylaws and punish those who litter, saying, “Together with education and enforcement, we believe we can achieve lasting change.”

Mr Kusi reminded citizens that sanitation is a shared responsibility and urged everyone to keep their surroundings clean, desilt drains, and properly dispose of waste.

“Every first Saturday of the month is National Sanitation Day, and I expect all citizens to participate,” he charged.

He further encouraged households to acquire waste bins for proper waste storage, noting that Zoomlion provides them at a subsidised cost.

“Indiscriminate littering harms us all and pollutes our environment. Let’s change our habits so we can all enjoy the clean Ghana we desire,” he urged.

Earlier, at the forecourt of the AMA head office in Tudu, Accra, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ibrahim Ahmed, urged Ghanaians to see the exercise not just as a physical activity but as a mental and attitudinal one.

“Beyond the sweeping and cleaning, we must work on resetting our mindset and changing our behavioural attitudes,” he said, while appealing to the media to support the government’s sanitation agenda by promoting positive attitudes toward cleanliness.

The National Sanitation Day was reintroduced by President John Dramani Mahama on September 6, 2025, at the Institute of Local Government Studies (ILGS), Ogbojo–Madina, to unite Ghanaians in maintaining a clean and healthy environment.

Source: AdomOnline

He emphasised that without Zoomlion’s investments, including its waste treatment plants across the country, the sanitation situation would have worsened.

He explained that Zoomlion’s contributions extend beyond cleaning the environment to also supporting farmers through its composting and recycling efforts.

Oti Bless’s comments came after a tour of Zoomlion’s Integrated Recycling and Compost Plant (IRECOP), Wastewater Treatment Plant and Medical Waste Systems Limited all located at the same premises in Tamale, Northern Region on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, where he commended the company’s significant investments in sanitation infrastructure.

According to him, his committee was strongly pushing for a dedicated source of funding for sanitation.

This, he explained, would help address issues such as the government’s indebtedness to Zoomlion and also ensure prompt payment to private sector sanitation providers.

He added that with a dedicated funding source, the government would be able to pay service providers in the sanitation sector promptly, including clearing its outstanding debts to Zoomlion.

“Across the world, there is always a funding mechanism for sanitation. Without funding, how do you pay service providers? That is the challenge we face as a country, and all stakeholders, including the media, must work together on this,” he stated.

He commended Zoomlion’s operations in the Northern Region, and urged government to provide incentives for Ghanaian businesses that invest in impactful environmental projects, noting that the government cannot handle the challenges alone.

“It’s a very important facility. We’ve learned they are now in talks with Jospong to set up a similar facility in Burkina Faso. That shows how crucial this is,” he said, referencing a recent visit by a Burkinabé delegation to a Zoomlion plant in Kumasi.

Oti Bless reiterated that sanitation was primarily private-sector driven and called for stronger collaboration between the government and private companies.

He also highlighted the need for a public attitudinal shift, urging Ghanaians to stop indiscriminate dumping and use provided waste bins.

The tour included Ranking Member, Kofi Ahenkorah Marfo and members Bismark Nyarko Tetteh, Joseph Azumah, and Fatahiya Abdul Aziz.

Source: AdomOnline

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This initiative, under the directive of the Ministry of Health (MoH) and the Ghana Health Service (GHS), marks a strategic shift from controlling malaria towards its complete elimination.

The programme, a core component of the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP), moves beyond treating symptoms and targeting adult mosquitoes to systematically destroying larvae before they can hatch and spread disease.

The multi-faceted approach includes land reclamation to permanently alter breeding sites, routine clearing of streams, and the targeted application of environmentally sensitive biological and chemical agents.

“We are not just controlling the mosquito population; we are working to break the chain of transmission entirely,” a statement from the company read.

“By stopping the mosquito before it becomes a flying, biting adult, we prevent malaria, dengue, and other vector-borne diseases from ever reaching our communities.”

The implementation is a collaborative effort, leveraging the expertise of the Noguchi Memorial Institute, the School of Public Health, and regional health authorities.

A key to its success is the mobilisation of community volunteers, empowering locals to identify and help clear standing water in their immediate surroundings.

The benefits of this source-based strategy are profound. It is a cost-effective method that reduces the need for large-scale insecticide spraying, minimizes environmental impact, and protects the efficacy of other malaria control tools.

Most importantly, it directly translates to improved public health through fewer infections and fatalities.

Against this backdrop, Zoomlion has urged all citizens to join this critical mission. Communities are encouraged to be vigilant—reporting stagnant water sites, covering water containers, and clearing clogged gutters to deny mosquitoes a place to breed.

“Eliminating mosquito breeding sites is synonymous with eliminating malaria,” officials emphasised. “This is a long-term fight, and with nationwide participation, victory is within our grasp.”

Source: Zoomlion

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He was particularly impressed with the facilities Zoomlion has deployed to address waste management problems in several African countries.

President Ruto made the commendation during the official opening of Kenya’s 2025 Devolution Conference hosted in Homa Bay County on August 13, 2025, after he visited Jospong Group’s stand at the Pavilion and Exhibition Booth.

It followed the Executive Chairman of the Jospong Group of Companies, Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong, explaining to the President of Kenya how Zoomlion Ghana Limited (ZGL) and its subsidiary companies tackle waste in Ghana and across Africa.

Dr. Siaw Agyepong informed President Ruto that the waste management companies under Zoomlion included Accra Compost and Recycling Plant (ACARP), Integrated Recycling and Compost Plant (IRECOP), Waste Landfills (WL), Medical Waste Services Limited (MWSL), Landfill Technologies Services, and Kumasi Compost and Recycling Plant.

He stressed that these waste management companies were offering technology-driven solutions to African waste management challenges.

Organised by the Council of Governors, the DevCon2025 brought together over 11,000 delegates, including government officials, county governors, development partners, the private sector, civil society, and international stakeholders.

Among the distinguished attendees were all the 47 county governors, members of the county assemblies, and the Senate, among others.

The four-day conference (August 12 – 15, 2025), themed “For the People, For Prosperity: Devolution as a Catalyst for Equity, Inclusion and Social Justice,” examined devolution’s role in realizing equity, inclusion, and social justice in Kenya.

Later, addressing the delegates, Dr. Siaw Agyepong unveiled an ambitious plan to transform Kenya’s waste management landscape and create over 52,000 jobs annually.

According to him, this will involve a clustering operation into regional counties to facilitate effective and efficient waste management across Kenya.

“With a population of about 57 million generating approximately 28,000 tonnes of waste daily, we propose clustering operations into regional counties—so that about five counties will share one integrated waste facility.
“It may interest you to know that about 52,000 jobs can be created annually through the establishment of waste management treatment plants, like we have done in Ghana,” Dr. Siaw Agyepong stressed.

The clustering of Kenyan counties strategy revealed by the Jospong Group Executive Chairman was widely applauded at the 9th edition of the Kenya Devolution Conference 2025 (DevCon2025), hosted in Homa Bay County.

He said the clustering of the counties would further generate 30,000 jobs from waste collection, transportation, and sweeping; 21,000 jobs from integrated waste management plant operations; and 1,800 jobs from green initiatives, data collection, monitoring, and validation within the carbon market.

The Executive Chairman of JGC stressed the need for Kenya to harness the potential of Jospong Group’s operations in Ghana, adding that “Together, Ghana and Kenya can build and sustain efficient waste management systems within counties.”

He noted that there was no such thing as “waste”—”only misplaced resources,” adding that “Let us recover and recycle them for the benefit of our people.” “Today, I am confident that by 2027, Jospong will be able to present clear evidence of plants installed across all participating countries,” he said.

Dr. Siaw Agyepong concluded his address with a 2-minute video from its leading subsidiary company, Zoomlion Ghana Limited, and as the video ended, the auditorium erupted in applause from the delegates.

This was the first time a West African conglomerate, specifically the Jospong Group from Ghana, was participating in Kenya’s Devolution Conference.

The presentation ceremony took place in Goaso, where the Ahafo Regional Coordinator of Zoomlion, Maxwell Osei Antwi, said the move is aimed at addressing persistent challenges with waste evacuation.

He explained that frequent breakdowns of existing trucks had resulted in overflowing waste containers, posing a major sanitation threat.

“The presented trucks will serve as backups. Immediately a truck breaks down, these ones will move to do the evacuation to ensure that containers are empty all the time as expected,” he told Adom News.

Mr. Antwi said the trucks will be shared among the six municipal and district assemblies. Tano North and South will share one truck, Asutifi North and South will use another, while the last truck will be shared between Asunafo North and South.

He believes the move will help ensure regular clearing and transportation of refuse to designated dumping sites to keep the region clean.

Receiving the trucks on behalf of the Ahafo Regional Minister, the Regional Political Coordinator, Loaman Iddrisu Dauda, lauded Zoomlion for the gesture.

He said the support will ease the burden on assemblies that struggle to manage waste due to constant breakdowns of collection vehicles.

“The availability of these trucks will help the assemblies handle waste properly,” he stated, calling the intervention timely and commendable.

Source: Sammy Asare

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Given this, the Jospong Group, led by its Executive Chairman, Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong, paid a working visit to Mombasa, Kenya, where he held high-level discussions with the Governor of Mombasa County, H.E. Abdullswamad Sherrif Nassir.

The meeting, which took place on July 02, 2025, focused on building a strong partnership between Mombasa and Zoomlion Ghana Limited to enhance sustainable waste management in the region.

The partnership will, among other things, aim at tackling sanitation challenges while creating economic opportunities for local communities in Mombasa.

Dr. Agyepong stated, “Our mission is to turn Africa’s sanitation challenges into engines of opportunity and growth. Africa is ready, and Mombasa is a key partner in this transformative agenda.”

He stated that Zoomlion’s expansion into Kenya is not just about growth, but “about sharing our experience, building local capacity, and supporting African-led development.

…Together, we can reimagine the future of waste management on the continent,” he noted.

Governor Nassir welcomed the Jospong delegation and expressed strong interest in collaborating with Zoomlion and the Jospong Group, acknowledging its proven track record across the continent.

He stressed the need for practical solutions that can deliver immediate impact while laying the foundation for long-term environmental resilience.

The partnership between Mombasa and Zoomlion Ghana Limited is expected to drive economic growth, create jobs, and promote environmental sustainability in the region.

Meanwhile, Dr. Siaw Agyepong was warmly received by Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, Dr. Deborah Mlongo Barasa, at the Ministry’s Nairobi headquarters. This meeting was part of Zoomlion’s Africa Expansion Project, aimed at exploring innovative waste management solutions tailored to Kenya’s needs.

Dr. Agyepong showcased Zoomlion’s extensive expertise in integrated waste management, highlighting the company’s impact in Ghana and other African countries, as well as its growing presence in Asia.

For his part, Dr. Barasa expressed keen interest in our model, reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to partnerships that drive green growth and circular economy transitions. She stressed the crucial role of private sector innovation in addressing Kenya’s environmental challenges.

The meeting concluded with an agreement to convene a technical follow-up session with the Ministry and Kenya’s National Environment Management Authority (NEMA). The objective is to explore how the Jospong model can support Kenya’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework and broader environmental goals.

Key stakeholders from the Ministry, including Mr. Njoroge Mbitu, Deputy Director for Waste Management and Pollution Control, and Ms. Linah Meeme, Head of Legal Affairs, joined the meeting. Jospong remains committed to providing scalable African solutions for the continent’s environmental future.

Jospong Group, through Zoomlion Ghana Limited, has already advanced operations in other countries on the continent, successfully deploying scalable waste management systems, creating jobs, and promoting a circular economy.

With over 60 subsidiaries operating in diverse sectors, Jospong Group continues to champion African excellence through innovative, sustainable, and inclusive business models.

The company says this act and indiscriminate dumping of waste at collection sites without recourse to lay down arrangements undermine its goal to keep communities clean.

Regional Coordinator, Ashanti East, Isaac Bamfo, who made the revelation, said the intentional burning of metal containers at collection sites has become a major obstacle.

According to him, the situation is worsened by recalcitrant residents who refuse to dump waste into containers but instead dump it indiscriminately.

“Our biggest challenge is people setting fire to our containers and littering around them. These actions not only damage our equipment but also make it extremely difficult to maintain a clean environment,” he said. “Sometimes, people send small children to dump refuse. When the kids can’t reach the top of the containers, they leave it on the ground, assuming Zoomlion workers will come and clean it up.”

He was speaking at the launch of 12 new sanitation trucks in the Ashanti Region as the region receives its share of 200 trucks being deployed nationwide.

Mr Bamfo, who is courting public support to end the practice, revealed Zoomlion, in partnership with the Assemblies, will intensify enforcement by penalising individuals who engage in these harmful acts.

“Keeping our cities clean is a shared responsibility. Zoomlion cannot do it alone. We are pleading with everyone to stop these practices and help us keep Ghana clean,” he appealed.

The deployment of the new trucks forms part of Zoomlion’s broader strategy to strengthen operations across all metropolitan, municipal, and district assemblies in the Ashanti region.

According to Mr Bamfo, more trucks are expected in the third quarter to augment the existing fleet, as new drivers and janitors are also being recruited to enhance management.

Meanwhile, his counterpart in Ashanti West, George Manu, is hopeful the new trucks will significantly improve sanitation logistics in the region.

“The contract that expired is the one involving the YEA sweepers. The SIP is a separate and ongoing sanitation initiative. It wasn’t cancelled; it simply expired, and we’re working to renew and expand our collaboration,” he explained.

The event is expected to address recent confusion regarding the government’s contract with Zoomlion as the company urges Ghanaians to be active participants in the sanitation efforts by disposing of waste properly.

This initiative aims to boost Ghana’s waste management infrastructure, promoting cleaner and healthier communities across all 16 regions.

The nationwide deployment, covering all 16 regions, significantly boosts Ghana’s waste management infrastructure, paving the way for cleaner and healthier communities.

At the official launch of the new fleet for the Eastern Region, the New Juaben South Municipal Sanitation Chairman, Enoch Boahene, representing the Eastern Regional Minister, highlighted that the trucks will boost operational efficiency and enhance waste collection capacity in the districts.

According to him, Zoomlion’s intervention has been a relief for Ghana, as its innovative waste management strategies have prevented waste from overwhelming the country.

“If not for their innovative waste management, waste would have engulfed the country, but due to their waste collection and haulage to centralised centers to recycle waste, the situation is different,” he noted.

“I visited some areas within New Juaben and saw many places where waste was piled up, but because of the innovations brought in by Zoomlion and the collaboration with the assembly, we were able to collect all the waste, which averted the sanitation issues that were emanating within the assembly. This was due to the good work by Zoomlion,” he added.

He further called on all relevant stakeholders, chiefs, and individuals who can help the company grow to come on board, as they are doing a great job for the country in terms of sanitation.

The General Manager of 360 Waste Limited, a subsidiary of Zoomlion Ghana Limited, Mr. Emil Amoah, explained that the initiative forms part of the company’s strategic investment in modern equipment and improved service delivery.

“This fleet expansion is a reflection of our deep commitment to environmental protection, public health, and sustainable urban development,” he stated.

The 200 trucks are equipped with modern features to handle waste collection under varying conditions, ensuring faster and more reliable waste collection, extended coverage to previously underserved communities, increased readiness to respond to emergencies, and high-demand periods.

The goal is not just to collect waste but to provide timely, reliable, and community-focused sanitation services across the country.

Each region is receiving a share of the fleet, allowing local teams to strengthen waste management activities in their jurisdictions.

The initiative aims to reduce sanitation-related health risks, improve the overall cleanliness of towns and cities, and ensure equitable access to quality waste collection services.

Zoomlion continues to work closely with Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to align local needs with national sanitation goals.

The company believes that strong partnerships are crucial to achieving lasting change in Ghana’s environmental health landscape.

“Our collaboration with local authorities is grounded in mutual respect and a shared vision of providing exceptional service delivery to all Ghanaians,” he noted.

The deployment also reinforces Zoomlion’s commitment to sustainability. The company remains focused on environmentally responsible practices, economically viable operations, and long-term social impact.

The move has been widely welcomed by local authorities and sanitation stakeholders as a timely intervention to improve waste management nationwide, especially as Ghana continues to battle urbanisation-related challenges.

On Tuesday, June 24, 2025, Dr. Siaw Agyepong led a delegation to meet with Burkina Faso’s Prime Minister, Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo, in the presence of the Burkinabe Minister in Charge of the Environment, Roger Baro, and the Ambassador of Burkina Faso to Ghana, Major Colonel David Kabré.

The meeting marked a significant step forward in realizing a major project to extend integrated waste management in Burkina Faso.

The initiative shall encompass waste collection, recovery, recycling and treatment within the waste management value chain in neighbouring Burkina Faso.

The project is a result of discussions between Burkinabe and Ghanaian authorities, including the President of Ghana’s official visit to Burkina Faso on March 10, and is part of a South-South cooperation initiative focused on sustainable development and job creation.

With over twenty years of experience in the waste management sector, the waste management experts, present in 24 other African countries, aim to leverage proven technologies and models in Ghana to address Burkina Faso’s environmental challenges.

“We are in a logic of promoting internal expertise, African,” the Prime Minister said, hailing this hopeful and laudable initiative, both for youth employment and combating unhealthiness. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to accompany and support investors who contribute to the development of the country.

On his part, Dr. Siaw Agyepong expressed confidence in the vision of the Burkina Faso President, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, including his ambition to boost job creation and promote a prosperous Burkina Faso.

He announced the imminent signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Burkina Faso’s Ministry in charge of the Environment, a key step before the start of infrastructure work.

As part of the project, Jospong Group plans to train Burkinabe youth in Ghana to manage the facility and its associated services delivery locally.

“We are not going to import Ghanaian workers to Burkina Faso,” “We will train young Burkinabe people who will take charge of waste management in their country,” Dr. Agyepong said.

Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem morning show, Madam Osei-Duah described the claims as false and painful, stating that Zoomlion has always advocated for the welfare of its workers.

“It’s really painful when people look us in the face and say we are mean or that we cheat the sweepers. That is not true,” she stated.

According to her, when Zoomlion started operations, sweepers were paid as little as GH₵50 under the administration of former President John Agyekum Kufuor.

However, it was Zoomlion itself that petitioned for better pay for the workers.

“We were the ones who pleaded for the salaries to be increased. We wrote letters and made proposals, and that’s how the pay rose from GH₵50 to GH₵180 and gradually to GH₵258,” she said.

She stressed that Zoomlion does not determine the salaries on its own but follows the amount agreed upon by the government.

“The current GH₵258 is what government has agreed should be paid to the sweepers. It is not that we are cheating anyone,” she clarified.

Touching on Zoomlion’s collaboration with the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), she noted that the company values the relationship and works within the guidelines provided.

“We are in a partnership with the YEA. We don’t want to act outside what has been agreed upon. That’s why these accusations are so disheartening,” she added.

Madam Osei-Duah also disclosed Zoomlion’s impact on sanitation in Ghana, stating that the company has been instrumental in promoting the use of standard waste bins in homes and businesses.

“Since we began, we’ve played a key role in improving sanitation in the country. Today, waste collection is more structured, and homes are using proper bins because of our efforts.”

The company, she noted is focused on serving the nation and not looking for praise.

“We know the work we’re doing. We know we are serving God, and that is enough for us,” she said.

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Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, Madam Osei-Duah explained that Zoomlion does not unilaterally determine how much is paid to sweepers. According to her, the often-cited GH₵600 figure in public discourse is not entirely allocated for salaries or company profits.

“There is a discussion after the submission of proposals, and both parties agree on what amount is appropriate for each aspect of the contract,” she said. “Zoomlion doesn’t issue a fiat regarding how the money is disbursed.”

She further clarified that the GH₵600 is not a lump sum designated solely for salaries. Instead, it covers two main components: logistics and a management fee.

“A portion of it is allocated for logistics—things like tools, protective clothing, and other consumables—and a part goes into the management fee. The management fee is around GH₵160, though I don’t have the exact figure,” she noted.

Regarding logistics, she explained that some items, referred to as “consumables,” are not supplied monthly but rather quarterly or as needed.

“We don’t go to the market every month. We are a business, so we buy in bulk, stock our stores, and supply quarterly or whenever necessary,” she said.

Responding to concerns about the low wages paid to sweepers, Madam Osei-Duah said Zoomlion has, on several occasions, proposed upward adjustments to the allowances.

“I have run operations before in Zoomlion, so I have worked directly with these people, and I can tell you that we have proposed a couple of times that these monies be adjusted upwards. Anytime there has been a change in the allowances of these workers, we have initiated the discussion,” she said.

However, she noted that her personal opinion on the GH₵258 amount is irrelevant in the context of contractual obligations.

“Whether I am happy with the current payment or not has no place here because the contract doesn’t belong to me. I am assigned to work under specific directives, so I do just that,” she added.

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The high-level meeting marks a significant milestone in Zoomlion’s Africa Expansion agenda to deploy cutting-edge, sustainable sanitation solutions across the continent.

It also reflects a shared commitment to tackling the growing waste management challenges in Africa through innovation, partnership, and long-term vision.

“We had a very fruitful meeting with His Excellency President Mwinyi, where we discussed transformative approaches to waste management that are both practical and forward-looking,” said the Executive Chairman of the JGC, Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong.

Dr. Agyepong noted that the partnership with Zanzibar forms part of Zoomlion’s broader strategy to work with progressive African governments to create cleaner, healthier, and more resilient cities and communities.

“At Zoomlion, we believe that waste is not just a challenge—it is an opportunity for innovation, employment, and sustainable development,” Dr. Agyepong noted.

“Our vision is aligned with that of Zanzibar’s leadership: to build a cleaner, greener future for generations to come,” he added.

The meeting explored a range of potential interventions, including the deployment of waste sorting and recycling technologies, the development of engineered landfill systems, and the introduction of community-based waste collection models that create jobs and stimulate local economies.

President Mwinyi expressed strong interest in Zoomlion’s proven track record in Ghana and other African countries, highlighting the need for such expertise to support Zanzibar’s environmental and tourism goals.

Zoomlion assured that it remained committed to supporting the Government of Zanzibar with technical expertise, investment, and capacity-building initiatives that will ensure the success of this ambitious transformation.

After visiting Zoomlion’s subsidiaries where the waste management equipment was being assembled, the Committee Chairman, Abraham Boadi, underscored that integrating skip tricycles into Kumasi’s waste management plan would bring significant benefits.

“We plan to engage with the General Assembly to ensure this initiative is properly implemented,” he said.

“With five sub-metros in the Ashanti Region, allocating this equipment across each of them would be highly beneficial,” he added.

Mr. Boadi made the observation when he led a delegation of fourteen members from the Environment Sub-Committee of the KMA on a field visit to inspect the ongoing logistics preparations by Zoomlion Ghana Limited, aimed at enhancing waste management in the Kumasi Metropolis and the Ashanti Region at large.

The visit covered three key locations where skip containers, skip trucks and self-loading tricycles are currently being assembled.

This included visits to JSA Logistics Warehouse in Tema, JA Plant Pool, and Accra Compost and Recycling Plant (ACARP) in Adjen Kotoku, Accra.

According to Mr. Boadi, they look forward to a strong collaboration between the Assembly and Zoomlion to effectively address the region’s waste management challenges.

The Metro Environmental Health Officer, who is also the Secretary to the Environment Sub-Committee, KMA and was part of the delegation, Kwaku Poku, said: “What we’ve seen here today is truly encouraging.

“…visiting and seeing the equipment firsthand has opened our eyes to the potential impact this initiative can have on waste management in the Kumasi Metropolis,” he revealed.

The introduction of this waste management equipment, he stated, was particularly impressive, as they can access areas that larger waste trucks cannot, especially in congested zones.

He stressed that this makes them ideal for market areas and other public gathering spaces.

“This trip has been very fruitful. Seeing these logistics firsthand, I believe they can significantly contribute to our efforts to tackle the waste crisis, especially in Kumasi,” Mr. Poku noted.

For his part, a Senior Public Health Engineer, Waste Management Department- KMA, Wiafe Akenten Oduro, commended Zoomlion for the remarkable initiative.

He was particularly impressed with the company’s huge investment in the waste management sector, adding that that has created employment opportunities for many Ghanaians.

“Without their various innovations and initiatives, many people might still be without jobs. Their efforts to improve our national waste management system are truly commendable, and we fully support them in this cause,” he said.

He used the opportunity to encourage Ghanaians to take responsibility in maintaining clean environments. “Waste management is a shared responsibility, and we all have a role to play in keeping our communities and surroundings clean,” Mr. Wiafe averred.

The beneficiaries of this generous gesture include Imam Abdul Karim Suleiman, Chief Imam and Operations Assistant—Greater Accra; Zaharia Ibrahim, Deputy Chief Imam and District Manager for Upper West; Bobtoya Barikisu, Stores Officer from Upper West; and Mohammed Gyan, Operations Assistant at Bono East.

These long-serving employees thanked Allah for the opportunity and offered prayers for the Executive Chairman’s long life and the continued success of the Jospong Group of Companies.

Imam Abdul Karim Suleiman said, “We are delighted and pray that God continues to provide more opportunities. We also pray for the Executive Chairman’s long life.”

Mohammed Gyan, who has been with Zoomlion since 2009, shared his gratitude: “I have never regretted my hard work for the company. I am very happy and thankful for the chance to visit Mecca as part of my retirement package. I pray that the Good Lord continues to bless the commendable efforts of the Executive Chairman and all the companies within the Jospong Group.”

Zaharia Ibrahim also expressed thanks to management and the Executive Chairman for this thoughtful gesture, acknowledging the company’s commitment to the well-being and spiritual growth of its employees.

The employees’ heartfelt prayers and gratitude highlight the profound impact of this gesture, and they continue to wish for the sustained success and guidance of the Jospong Group of Companies.

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President John Mahama has told investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni that his petition to discontinue the YEA-Zoomlion contract “is being given the necessary attention.”

Two weeks ago, the multiple award-winning journalist formally petitioned President Mahama to end the 19-year-old contract between the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) and Zoomlion Ghana Limited.

Under the previous contract, which expired in September 2024, GH₵850 was allocated to each sweeper. Zoomlion kept GH₵600 and paid the sweepers GH₵250 a month, according to the contract.

Zoomlion also charged interest if the YEA delayed in paying the company for three months. In 2024, Zoomlion charged an interest of GH₵90 million.

Zoomlion recently revealed that its latest proposal is “under discussion” at the YEA.

In this proposal, Zoomlion wants the allocation per sweeper to be raised to GH₵1,308, with Zoomlion taking GH₵888 and giving the sweepers GH₵420 a month.

The YEA has no data to verify the 45,000 sweepers Zoomlion claims to present for payment every month, despite raising an alarm in 2018.

The YEA has stated that its headcount showed 38,884 sweepers on the ground, contrary to Zoomlion’s claim of 45,000.

The YEA CEO, Justin Kodua Frimpong (the current NPP General Secretary), said Zoomlion failed to submit its payroll for verification when the YEA requested it.

In 2022, the YEA could not provide any data when the Accra Metropolitan Assembly complained in a letter that many sweepers had stopped working, yet Zoomlion continued to bill the state for 45,000 people every month.

Manasseh Awuni contends that the contract is fraught with corruption and does not provide value for money.

A letter signed by the Secretary to the President, Dr. Callistus Mahama, acknowledged receipt of the journalist’s petition.

“This is to inform you that the matter is being given the necessary attention and the outcome will be communicated to you in due course.”

Some past CEOs of the YEA have, at various times, raised concerns about the contract.

The immediate past CEO of the YEA, Kofi Baah Agyepong, told the YEA board that the contract with Zoomlion should be cancelled, as the YEA was capable of running the sweepers’ module without a third-party company, just as it runs other modules. In all the modules, the YEA pays all its beneficiaries more than the sweepers, whose payments are routed through Zoomlion.

Manasseh Awuni proposed to the President that the contract be discontinued so that the assemblies and the YEA can supervise the sweepers.

In this way, the assemblies can have direct control of the sweepers, who are paid with the assemblies’ share of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF).

If Zoomlion is eliminated as the middleman, the sweepers will enjoy better wages and be motivated to show up and work to keep the nation clean.

Zoomlion has a separate contract that charges all the assemblies to lift the refuse collected by the YEA sweepers to the dumping sites. This contract, the Sanitation Improvement Package (SIP), requires waste trucks, which some assemblies do not have because a significant portion of their budget is deducted to pay Zoomlion.

Manasseh Awuni said in his petition to the President that the assemblies could maintain the SIP contract with Zoomlion, since its immediate termination could cause sanitation challenges.

“When I investigated GYEEDA (now YEA) in 2013, President Mahama took drastic actions, including terminating contracts, passing the YEA Act, prosecuting and jailing two persons, and retrieving funds,” he said in a press statement after submitting the petition to the President.

“With the documentary evidence I submitted with the petition, I am confident that the President will terminate the Zoomlion contract, which is the only YEA contract that was not cancelled after my 2013 investigations, even though the GYEEDA report President Mahama commissioned made serious adverse findings against Zoomlion,” Manasseh Azure Awuni said.

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The waste management company said the recent attention on the contract, which dates back to 2006, has prompted the need to set the record straight and reassure the public of its continued commitment to youth empowerment and environmental sanitation.

Background: A long-term sanitation partnership

Zoomlion’s collaboration with the government began under the then Ministry of Youth and Sports through the National Youth Employment Programme (NYEP), which is now known as the YEA.

Under the Youth in Sanitation Module, YEA recruits youth beneficiaries while Zoomlion supervises their sanitation work nationwide.

“The agreement is structured to ensure that young people are gainfully employed while contributing to cleaner communities,” Zoomlion explained in the statement.

Funding structure and responsibilities

Zoomlion clarified how funds are allocated under the contract. Each beneficiary is assigned a total of GHS 850 monthly, with:

• GHS 258 paid directly to the youth as an allowance
• GHS 592 covering logistics, protective gear, and administrative management, handled by Zoomlion

The company emphasized that the management fee is not profit but is used for operational costs such as training, deployment, and the supply of cleaning tools and equipment.

Zoomlion also stated that it has consistently advocated for higher allowances for beneficiaries, showing its commitment to youth welfare.

Delayed government payments causing strain

A significant concern raised in the statement is the delayed reimbursements from the government.

Zoomlion said the company is required to pre-finance payments to the youth, with the government expected to reimburse them quarterly.

However, payments have not been received in over a year.

“This has forced us to call for interest payments to cushion the financial loss we’re incurring due to the delay,” the company noted.

Despite this, Zoomlion says it has continued operations “without interruption,” driven by its dedication to public service.

Nationwide impact of Zoomlion’s work

Zoomlion highlighted the broader achievements of its operations, including:

• Establishment of 36 waste treatment facilities, with 18 material recovery plants
• Creation of over 6,000 core jobs
• Employment of 30,000 tricycle riders
• Over 200,000 indirect jobs across the sanitation value chain

The company also pointed to its role in youth skills development and environmental protection through strategic partnerships and innovations.

Looking Ahead: Commitment to transparency and growth

Zoomlion reaffirmed its openness to reforms and welcomed efforts aimed at improving the effectiveness of the sanitation program.

It pledged to continue working with the government and local communities to drive job creation and cleaner environments.

“We remain fully committed to our role in national development,” the statement read. “We thank Ghanaians for your continued support and assure you of our resolve to keep Ghana clean, green, and healthy.”

Hon. Sawyerr Maame Pokuah Queenstar MP-Agona East and Chairperson-Local Government and Rural Development Select  Committee made this known during a visit to Zoomlion’s IRECOP facility in Ho, Volta Region.

Hon. Sawyerr emphasized the need for sustainability in sanitation efforts, noting that “most things that got started in 2016 will be held on and a different thing is done in 2020, a different thing is done in 2024, 2025, I think it’s not helping the country.”

She stressed the importance of continuity, regardless of the government in power, to enable companies like Zoomlion to deliver effectively.

“We need continuation no matter what it is or which government is in power. That is the only thing that can help the private sector to be able to deliver what they intend to do for Mother Ghana.” – Hon. Sewyerr

The Committee expressed concern over Zoomlion’s financial challenges, particularly the non-payment of arrears.

Hon. Sawyerr stated that “we are going to make sure we talk to this current government to let them understand that what we have seen, we can not follow suit what was done before.”

She assured that the Committee would push for change and support Zoomlion in getting the necessary support.

Hon. Sawyerr commended Zoomlion’s efforts, saying, “We are impressed, there are problems, we have made them aware, and I am sure we will come up with solutions to address them.”

The Committee reiterated its commitment to work with the private sector, including Zoomlion, to address the identified issues and ensure effective sanitation management in Ghana.

Sophia Kudzordji, Chief Corporate Communications Officer at Jospong Group, explaining the rationale behind the visit, said the visit was to enable the Committee to witness firsthand the company’s innovative waste management solutions.

The idea is for them to see what is happening, what investments are being made, what they can glean out of it for discussions, especially in parliament,” Kudzordji emphasized.

According to Madam Sophia, the Committee was impressed by Zoomlion’s state-of-the-art facilities, including medical waste treatment plants. “They didn’t know we have anything like a medical waste treatment plant in this part of the country.”

Job Creation and Capacity Building
Kudzordji also emphasized the impact of Zoomlion’s operations on job creation and capacity building.

About 80% of the people working at the Ho facility are from this area,” she said, highlighting the company’s commitment to building livelihoods in local communities.

During a tour of the company’s state-of-the-art Accra Compost and Recycling Plant (ACARP) at Adjen Kotoku in Accra on April 23, 2025, the committee members praised Zoomlion’s commitment to improving sanitation in Ghana.

The visit formed part of the committee’s mandate to explore ways Ghana can effectively address its sanitation challenges.

Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the tour, the Chairman of the Committee, Mr. John Oti Bless, said:
“I am truly impressed by the level of investment that has gone into these major companies.”

He noted that Zoomlion’s contributions to sanitation management have been commendable, with its facilities functioning effectively.
“We’ve seen significant progress since 2000, and especially from 2004,” he added.

However, he pointed out that the current challenge lies in implementing effective sanitation practices in streets and communities.
“We want to see stronger action where it matters most — in the streets and communities,” he emphasised.

While acknowledging existing sanitation issues requiring urgent attention, Mr. Oti Bless said after visiting ACARP and other modern facilities such as Sewerage Systems Ghana Limited (SSGL), committee members were convinced that the necessary capacity exists. However, the major constraint is funding.

He revealed that the government owes service providers like Zoomlion about GHS 1.2 billion and said the committee was working to ensure prompt payments.
“About GHS 13 billion has been budgeted for this purpose, and we expect prompt action,” he disclosed.
“Zoomlion hasn’t received payments from the government for the past two years. How can a company function effectively without resources?” he quizzed.

Mr. Oti Bless also called for the establishment of a dedicated sanitation fund, intensified public education campaigns, and the enforcement of local bylaws.
“Sanitation is a daily necessity that requires a dedicated source of funding,” he argued.
“If 40 pesewas is being raised through the levy, 20 pesewas should go to sanitation while the other 20 pesewas goes to energy. This will bring real change,” he recommended.

He added that his committee plans to work with the media to promote public awareness and support for sanitation initiatives.
“We must ensure the enforcement of local bylaws. Many district assemblies’ bye-laws are not gazetted, which renders them unenforceable,” he stated.

Mr. Oti Bless, who is also the MP for Nkwanta North in the Oti Region, lauded Zoomlion’s innovation and productivity, including its production of tricycles, waste processing, and furniture.
“We urge Ghanaians and civil society to support and buy local products from Zoomlion,” he encouraged.
“This fight is about public health. It’s not about individuals or politics — it concerns every Ghanaian.”

He assured the public that the committee is committed to delivering positive change in Ghana’s sanitation sector.
“We have hit the ground running, and we will not stop until the right things are done,” he declared.

Earlier, in a presentation, the Executive Chairman of the Jospong Group, Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong, appealed to the committee to help ensure sanitation and environmental bylaws are enforced and offenders prosecuted.

“What we [Zoomlion] do here goes beyond just cleaning,” he said.
“We are tackling cholera, environmental issues, and even tourism-related concerns, all while improving public health and sanitation infrastructure.”

Dr. Agyepong emphasised the far-reaching benefits of a clean environment, saying:
“A clean and safe environment can significantly extend people’s lives.”

He also lamented the lack of incentives and recognition for the work being done in the sanitation sector.
“The work we do often lacks the recognition it deserves, which is quite discouraging,” he noted.

One key issue he highlighted was the high taxes imposed on essential equipment.
“We are currently engaging in discussions about the taxes imposed on some of our equipment, and we kindly appeal to the members present to take up this matter on our behalf,” he requested.

Dr. Agyepong expressed confidence that with the right support, Zoomlion could contribute even more to Ghana’s development.
“Your support can help us do even more for the country,” he concluded.

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The minister was speaking on Adom TV in Accra when he underscored the indispensability of Zoomlion’s cutting-edge facilities, which position Ghana as a regional leader in sustainable waste solutions.

“The kind of sanitation infrastructure that Zoomlion has invested in, both in municipal solid and liquid waste and robustness of the recycling waste management plants, is so unparalleled,” he averred.

Hon. Ahmed proceeded on to praise Zoomlion’s nationwide network of modern recycling plants, faecal waste management systems, and sewage-to-resource technologies, which convert waste into compost and charcoal.

These facilities, he noted, align with Ghana’s 2016 ban on ocean dumping of faecal waste, a policy enacted under former President John Dramani Mahama that halted hazardous coastal pollution.

“Before Zoomlion, faecal waste flowed freely into the sea that causing diseases such as cholera. Their infrastructure is now our lifeline,” he emphasized.

The Minister who has overside responsibility of sanitation, however, raised alarms over a crippling 1.2 billion Ghana cedis debt owed to Zoomlion by the government, inherited from the previous Akufo-Addo administration.

According to him, this debt has been a significant concern for the government, adding that despite this “we are closely collaborating with Zoomlion to address Ghana’s waste management challenges.”
“We collaborating closely with Zoomlion to address waste management challenges in the country, particularly focusing on recycling plastic waste,” he noted.

He stressed the necessity for the government to forge solid partnerships with private waste management firms, and urged Zoomlion not to relent on their efforts to complete their waste infrastructure transformation agenda.

Ibrahim Ahmed also linked recent cholera outbreaks in coastal cities like Cape Coast, Winneba, and Takoradi (October 24, 2023) to lingering gaps in public sanitation education.

He urged intensified advocacy to curb reckless waste disposal, particularly in water bodies critical for domestic and agricultural use.

“Zoomlion’s work goes beyond just sweeping our streets, it’s about safeguarding national health and environmental sustainability,” he asserted, rallying support for stronger public-private partnerships.

The Minister, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, made this revelation on Adom TV in Accra, while addressing delayed payments to firms under the Environmental Service Providers Association (ESPA).

This debt, inherited from the Akufo-Addo administration, he said, has been a significant concern for the current government.

Despite this, he underscored the importance of collaboration between the government and private waste management companies like Zoomlion to address Ghana’s waste management challenges.

“We are collaborating closely with Zoomlion to address waste management challenges in the country, particularly focusing on recycling plastic waste,” he noted.

He stressed the necessity for the government to forge robust partnerships with private waste management firms, while commending Zoomlion for its state-of-the-art sanitation infrastructure.

According to Ahmed Ibrahim, Zoomlion’s substantial investments in modern solid and liquid waste treatment and recycling facilities nationwide remained unparalleled, as the government does not have such infrastructure to deal with the waste (both municipal solid and liquid waste) being generated daily in the cities.

“Zoomlion’s commitment to building advanced waste management systems across Ghana remains unparalleled,” Ibrahim Ahmed stated.

He admitted the government’s lack of comparable infrastructure, stressing the urgency of public-private collaborations to tackle sanitation issues.

The Minister highlighted Zoomlion’s expanded role beyond waste collection, including faecal waste management.

He warned of a nationwide sanitation crisis should Zoomlion halt operations, recalling past practices where faecal waste was dumped directly into the sea, causing environmental and health hazards.

He indicated that Zoomlion’s liquid waste recycling plants now process sewage into compost and charcoal, aligning with a 2016 ban on sea disposal initiated by former President Dramani Mahama.

Ahmed Ibrahim, therefore, called for sufficient government attention to sanitation, citing a cholera outbreak in coastal regions like Cape Coast, Winneba, and Takoradi on October 24, 2023, advocating intensified public education on sanitation risks.

A very rich man cultivated a large plantation and hired workers to work on the farm for him.

But because the farm was so huge that he couldn’t supervise their services, he hired extra hands to manage the labourers working on the farm for him.

The farmer told the managers how much he would pay them and how much he wanted them to pay the labourers at the end of every month.

The managers did as directed by the farmer and whenever money was made available to them, the labourers were paid.

However, the farmers could go for some months without wages because the farmers had refused to release money to the managers to pay them.

But in the end, the managers receive all the backlash, vilification, and insults just because the farmer had refused to give them money to be given to the labourers.

Then again, there was also the issue of the labourers receiving peanuts as wages. But before the managers can hire any worker, the farmer determines how much that labourer should be paid.

However because the farmer was no more hiring the workers directly but through the managers, the workers felt it was the managers who were wicked and had refused to pay them what was due them.

Detach your emotions, erase whatever judgment you hold analyse the situation as the facts have it, and judge by yourself, if any of the concerns regarding this situation should be blamed on the farmer or the managers.

The short story you just read is the story of the Government of Ghana which in this case is the farmer, Zoomlion Ghana Limited which is the manager(s), and its YEA staff who are the labourers.

Zoomlion and the Government of Ghana story

One Monday morning in the year 2006, I observed that the route to my school which was about 1.2 kilometers from the centre of the town was not the usual one I had seen for the past years I had stayed in that community or visited there.

After walking a bit further ahead, I saw people in blue and orange working gear with some tricycles sweeping the roadside and desilting the choked drains.

As I walked a bit closer, I saw ZOOMLION inscribed on their uniforms and on the tricycles they were using.

I remember vividly the words that came out of my mouth as I inched closer. ‘Nyame nhyira mo’, to wit God bless you.

I didn’t know what Zoomlion was, who had contracted them to keep our environments clean, their payment module, and other details in their contract with the government.

But what I learned subsequently was that these persons had been employed as part of the government’s strategies to manage waste in the country, especially in urban areas, through the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) and the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies in partnership with Zoomlion Ghana Limited to implement the Youth in Waste and Sanitation Module.

Over the years, Zoomlion Ghana Limited has been a game-changer in Ghana’s waste management sector by providing Integrated Waste Management Solutions to cover the entire waste management process, from collection, haulage, transfer, sorting, recycling, and disposal.

Overall, Zoomlion Ghana Limited has made significant contributions to Ghana’s waste management space, promoting sustainability, public health, and environmental protection.

Although their services cater to various sectors which include residential, business as well as community levels, for this discussion, I will focus on the community services which it renders with the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) as its manager.

A few years after the emergence of Zoomlion, there were reports of the YEA agents under the module receiving peanuts as monthly wages for the work done.

This has existed over the years with similar reports emerging from time to time.

I was searching for something online over the weekend and this issue of the YEA operatives working with Zoomlion popped up.

It took my memory back to 2006 when it all started when these workers were happily working without any of these emerging issues.

I was forced to read the story again although I had read it earlier as an ardent follower of news.

The story, written by Ibrahim Abubakar and published on 3news.com, was about a protest by some of the operatives who said they had not been paid for 20 months, ie, four months away from two years.

Aside from the delay in the salary which became topical in the country, the usual size of the salary also came up.

Then I asked myself how Zoomlion could be so ‘wicked’ to be paying its workers as low as GHC250.00 per month and delay the salary for 20 good months.

Then I saw a release from the Public Relations Unit of the company explaining in detail, the cause of the concerns raised.

First, is the amount Zoomlion pays the workers determined by the government or Zoomlion?

Secondly, does the government release funds for Zoomlion which it refuses to pay the workers on time or not? These were the two major questions I sought to ask which the statement from the company addressed.

I know some big corporations whose security staff are paid GHC500.00 a month after working 12 hours a day for the entire week. If you divide the rate they are paid per day, for the 12 hours, it is GHC16.67p.

This means that even if you round the figure up to GHC17, it means they take GHC1.41p for an hour.

In the case of Zoomlion, each worker has a day off in a week, meaning they work 26 days in a month on average, making their daily wage GHC9.61p which becomes GHC10.00 if it is also rounded up. This means they receive an hourly wage rate of GHC2.50p.

This is because these people are required to work for 4 hours per day and I can attest to the fact that some of these operatives can sweep their designated portions in less than 2 hours and have the rest of the day to do whatever they want to do.

What am I doing here? I am not justifying the supposed meagre salary given to these workers.

However, I have been struggling to understand why no one has ever taken any private security company or many of these private firms on for paying their staff less than GHC1.50p per hour, but have all the cause to roast Zoomlion for ‘giving’ its staff GHC2.50p per hour.

This is if we assume without admitting that the said amount is determined by Zoomlion itself as most of the public have been made to believe.

No one should get me wrong. I am not saying the amount the workers are being paid is enough. No! I wish they could take double or triple of that.

However, what we are failing to appreciate is the fact that this amount is determined by the government and not Zoomlion, and even if it was determined by Zoomlion, there are several other private companies in the country whose salary structure is far poorer than what operatives under the YEA’s Waste and Sanitation Module are taking.

I know there are so many private companies in this country who pay their workers with these peanuts, some even less than the GHC500. However, I used the security company as an example for this piece.

Following the August 2024 issues that came up, the company came to clarify that:

As per the contract agreement, Zoomlion is responsible for managing the operatives and providing the necessary logistics they require for their work, including uniforms, brooms, and other working tools.

However, it is important to note the following:

Payment of Allowances: The payment of YEA operatives’ allowances is solely determined by the Government/YEA.

It is then released to Zoomlion for onward payment to the beneficiaries as Zoomlion manages their day-to-day activities but does not control or determine the amount or timing of payments to operatives.

Working Hours: YEA operatives work for four (4) hours per day and do not work on Sundays.

In addition to their regular duties, whenever operatives are required to work outside their contracted hours, Zoomlion ensures they are compensated with an allowance, and in some cases, provided with lunch.

Support for Workers: While it is not mandated by the contract for Zoomlion to offer compensation in cases of death or injury, the company has, on humanitarian grounds, extended support in such instances, including financial assistance for medical treatment. Additionally, operatives are appreciated at the end of each year with gifts of rice and oil, courtesy of Zoomlion.

18 Years of Unwavering Commitment to YEA Workers: For nearly two decades, Zoomlion has maintained a steadfast partnership with the YEA, consistently demonstrating our commitment to the well-being of YEA workers.

Notably, Zoomlion has established an unblemished record of timely salary payments to YEA workers over the past 18 years, ensuring their financial stability and security.

Moreover, our collaboration has gone beyond mere employment, as we have invested in the professional development of YEA workers.

Through comprehensive training programs, numerous YEA workers have acquired specialized skills, with many advancing to become certified truck drivers.

Annual Global Exposure: Zoomlion’s yearly commitment to global exposure and motivation was evident in June when YEA operatives were sponsored to visit Belarus and Russia, expanding their waste management knowledge and expertise.

Clarification on Delayed Payments: We understand the concerns about delays in the payment of allowances in some regions.

However, Zoomlion is not responsible for these delays, as the government has not yet disbursed funds to the company for payment.

Nonetheless, Zoomlion has, on several occasions, secured loans to pre-finance allowances as a humanitarian gesture, even though this is not part of our contractual obligations.

Even though not everything stated in the release could be directly benefited by a majority of the operatives, my utmost interest is the fact that Zoomlion does not determine how much these staff should be paid, and even if it does, the payment is better compared to many private companies in the country.

What is mind-boggling is the fact that no one has been able to dispute the fact that the amount given to the workers is determined by Zoomlion instead of the government as the company is claiming in its release.

So why is Zoomlion being blamed for a decision by the government of Ghana? You may have your reservations about Zoomlion but truth be told, no waste management company in the country possesses the wherewithal in terms of both human capital and resources to manage our waste in this country.

Zoomlion’s consistent delivery of world-class management services to various MMDAs over the years has resulted in a significant reduction in sanitation-related health issues across the country which has earned them contracts in other African countries.

I don’t think if they were that bad, they would have gotten such deals beyond the borders of Ghana.

In my conclusion, I want to suggest that, if it is possible, Zoomlion should devise means of securing money to pay these workers at the end of every month to avoid the backlash it receives from the public for the unnecessary delays in the release of their funds by the government.

This is a mistake from the government, but Zoomlion is the one that gets the backlash at the end of the day.

Also, there are issues regarding the concerns being spoken about, and I believe Zoomlion Ghana is a responsible corporate entity that has been at the forefront of driving sustainable waste management in Ghana.

Therefore, the best thing to be done is for stakeholders and persons raising concerns, in the best interest of and fairness to all parties involved, to engage in open and constructive dialogue rather than resorting to actions and pronouncements aimed at tarnishing the image of the company.

The ceremony took place on Thursday, January 23, 2025, in Accra.

Mr. Ibrahim, a sanitation worker in the Tamale metropolitan area, discovered GH₵20,000 in a waste bag during his routine duties.

Instead of keeping the money, he disclosed the discovery to his colleagues, took it home for safekeeping, and waited for the rightful owner to come forward.

A few days later, the owner approached their workplace, and Mr. Ibrahim returned the full amount.

To honour this act of integrity, Zoomlion Ghana Limited rewarded Mr. Ibrahim with an undisclosed amount of Ghana cedis, U.S. dollars, and a motorbike.

Dr. Ato Sarpong, a Board member of the JGC, praised Mr. Ibrahim’s selfless act.

“In today’s environment, it’s rare to find individuals like Ibrahim who return significant amounts of money to their owners.

His act of godliness has elevated the Zoomlion and Jospong brands worldwide.”

Dr. Sarpong prayed that the money Mr. Ibrahim returned would come back to him in multiple folds.

“We want to use Ibrahim as an example for others to emulate his integrity and values.”

For his part, the Northern Regional Public Jobs Coordinator for Zoomlion, Haruna Suleiman, praised Mr. Ibrahim’s dedication and discipline.

“He’s a hardworking individual who has worked with us for eight years without complaints,” averred Haruna Suleiman.

Mr. Salifu Ibrahim expressed gratitude to Zoomlion and his supervisor.

“I’ve never owned GH₵20,000, but I thought about the need to reset Ghana together.

“…I couldn’t spend someone’s money and tarnish my reputation,” Ibrahim noted.

As part of the reward package, Zoomlion flew Mr. Ibrahim to Accra for the first time and accommodated him at a luxurious hotel.

Zoomlion’s recognition of Mr. Salifu Ibrahim demonstrates the company’s commitment to its core values of godliness and people-focus, encouraging all Ghanaians to live with integrity and responsibility.

The incident, which has been hailed as a shining example of moral rectitude, occurred when Salifu Ibrahim, found a large sum of money.

Instead of keeping it for himself, he chose to track down the owner and return the money.

When asked why he returned the money, Salifu Ibrahim said it was against his religion to take something which is not his.

The owner, who wishes to remain anonymous, expressed gratitude to Salifu Ibrahim for his exceptional honesty and integrity.

“I am overwhelmed with joy and appreciation for this selfless act,” the owner gladly expressed.

This remarkable display of character by Salifu Ibrahim has earned him widespread acclaim, with many calling for him to be rewarded for his honesty.

The incident serves as a reminder that integrity and honesty are essential values that should be upheld by all members of society.

The event marked the beginning of President Mahama’s new term in office, following his swearing-in on Tuesday, January 7, 2025.

Many who attended the event, including party faithful and citizens who watched from nearby, lauded the company’s clean-up and beautification work as “par excellence.”

To prepare the Black Star Square for the ceremony, Zoomlion deployed over 500 personnel to undertake a comprehensive clean-up and beautification exercise across the major streets of Accra.

Workers of Zoomlion transformed the Black Star Square into a stunning oasis, boasting beautifully landscaped artificial turf that perfectly complemented the majestic architecture of the Ghanaian Parliament. The breathtaking result was truly a sight to behold!

The workers also cleaned Accra’s ceremonial streets, decorated traffic lights and trees with the national colours, weeded road medians, swept streets, desilted drains and painted the curbs.

The clean-up and beautification exercise ensured that Black Star Square and the ceremonial streets of Accra were spotless and radiant for the historic inauguration ceremony.

Additionally, the company painted pavements and pedestrian walkways.

Zoomlion’s consistent contributions to Ghana’s cleanliness and environmental sustainability demonstrate its dedication to its well-being.

President Mahama’s return to power is highly anticipated, with many Ghanaians hopeful that he will bring about positive change and development.

After winning the 2024 presidential election with 57.3% of the votes, President Mahama is expected to focus on addressing the country’s economic challenges, including unemployment and inflation, during his second term.

This effort is part of the waste management company’s social responsibility initiatives.

In line with this, Zoomlion has deployed over 500 personnel and state-of-the-art waste management equipment to undertake the massive cleaning and beautification task.

Their activities include cleaning the iconic Black Star Square and ceremonial streets, painting pavements and pedestrian walkways, and decorating traffic lights and trees with national colours.

Additionally, they are weeding road medians, sweeping streets, and clearing drains to ensure a pristine environment for the inauguration ceremony.

The Zoomlion personnel have already commenced work in earnest, aiming to create a clean, healthy, and beautiful environment for President Mahama’s second swearing-in ceremony.

Trees in the medians of ceremonial streets have been draped in national colours, adding a touch of patriotism to the preparations and enhancing Accra’s festive atmosphere.

Zoomlion’s commitment to sustainability and environmental care is evident in this initiative. As a leading waste management company in Ghana, they have consistently demonstrated dedication to promoting a cleaner and healthier environment.

Their efforts have not gone unnoticed, making them a shining example of corporate social responsibility in Ghana.

John Dramani Mahama, the presidential candidate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), secured a decisive victory in the 2024 presidential election with 56.55% of the votes. His main contender, Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), conceded defeat even before the official declaration of results by the Electoral Commission.

Mahama’s win marks his return to the presidency, a position he previously held from 2012 to 2016. In his victory speech, he emphasised the need for good governance, promising “severe measures and governance reforms” to “reset our nation.”

The NDC also gained a majority in the parliamentary elections, winning numerous seats across the country. This outcome is seen as a significant shift in Ghana’s political landscape, with the NDC poised to play a dominant role in the coming Parliament.

With President-elect John Dramani Mahama’s inauguration just around the corner, Zoomlion’s efforts will contribute to a memorable and dignified ceremony, showcasing their hard work and commitment to excellence.

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Mr. James Deku, a Communications Officer of Zoomlion Ghana Limited, made this call during the 29th session of the Conference of Parties (COP 29) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Baku, Azerbaijan.

He was speaking on the topic “Community-Driven and Gender-Inclusive Approaches to Waste Management for Climate Action.”

He emphasized that the waste sector is a significant contributor to methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas driving climate change. Therefore, it is essential to manage waste in a way that includes all stakeholders.

“Zoomlion’s waste management model is designed and operated in a manner that considers the interests of all stakeholders. Through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, local authorities engage community members in cleaning their environment using simple technologies,” he explained.

He also highlighted the critical role women play in waste management in Ghana, starting at the household level. “Women are at the forefront of waste management in Ghana, from domestic waste management to cleaning principal streets. This is evident in the significant number of women employed in the sector, as well as unskilled youth who are provided with the expertise needed to lead waste management efforts in their communities, thereby creating jobs for the vulnerable and unskilled,” he added.

Mr. Deku further noted that Zoomlion’s advanced capacity in waste treatment and recycling transforms waste into a resource, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with waste.

Dr. Sahar Sohail, an environmental scientist and member of the Pakistan delegation to COP 29, praised Zoomlion’s community-driven and gender-inclusive approach to waste management as a best practice worth emulating.

She remarked, “The lessons learned from Zoomlion Ghana Limited, part of the Jospong Group of Companies, provide valuable opportunities for collaboration to address waste management challenges globally.”

The Conference of the Parties (COP) is the supreme decision-making body of the UNFCCC. It brings together world leaders and parties to the Paris Agreement to address climate change challenges.

Following concerns about delays and arrears, Zoomlion has said it has no hand in the determination of the remuneration of employees.

In a statement, Zoomlion explained that, the payment of allowances is solely determined by the government thus YEA which is then released to Zoomlion for onward payment to the beneficiaries.

The waste management giant added it only manages the day-to-day activities but does not control or determine the amount or timing of payments to operatives.

“Waste and Sanitation Module,” is implemented in partnership with the Government of Ghana through the YEA and “as per the contract agreement, Zoomlion is responsible for managing the operatives and providing the necessary logistics they require for their work, including uniforms, brooms, and other working tools,” the statement explained.

YEA’s Executive Officer, Kofi Baah Agyapong, has demanded a review of the arrangement, which affects hundreds of sweepers who clean streets and public spaces across the country.

Under the current contract, Zoomlion is paid GH₵ 850 per sweeper by the government through YEA.

From this amount, the company pays the workers GH₵ 250, while retaining GH₵ 600 as management and logistics fees.

Despite this, some sweepers have reportedly not been paid for nine months.

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Read the full statement:

She clarified that the unpaid period is not up to a year but nine months.

In an interview on Joy FM’s Newsnight on Wednesday, October 2, Madam Osei-Duah said “We’ve not paid some of the sweepers, but it is not up to a year. We have not paid them for 9 months because we have paid four months to each person.”

The delay in payment, according to the company, is due to the nature of the contract with the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), which requires Zoomlion to pre-finance payments before being reimbursed.

Ongoing discussions between Zoomlion and YEA regarding the contract have further contributed to the delays, she added.

This comes after calls from YEA to suspend the management services contract with Zoomlion due to the long-standing payment issues, affecting hundreds of sanitation workers across the country.

YEA’s Executive Officer, Kofi Baah Agyapong, has demanded a review of the arrangement, which affects hundreds of sweepers who clean streets and public spaces across the country.

Under the current contract, Zoomlion is paid GH₵ 850 per sweeper by the government through YEA. From this amount, the company pays the workers GH₵ 250, while retaining GH₵ 600 as management and logistics fees.

Despite this, some sweepers have reportedly gone unpaid for over a year, leading YEA to push for a suspension of the contract and seek a renegotiation to address the growing backlog.

The angry workers comprising female sweepers and cleaners lament the non-payment of the outstanding salaries is biting hard on their living conditions even as they grapple the prevailing economic difficulties.

The cleaners adorned in their blue and orange uniforms took to the streets of the business district of Kumasi to vent their displeasure at their employer.

For close to a year and half, these workers mostly women have had to endure working without being paid their due salary of 250 cedis every month.

The aggrieved workers have threatened to boycott their services if the government fails to pay the outstanding amounts.

“You’ve not paid one year four months arrears. You only paid four months. We demand all our arrears. We wake up at dawn at the peril of our lives,” one of the workers said.

These workers sweep streets, market centres and the central business districts of Kumasi both day and night.

Luv News understands a number of these workers have over the past year withdrawn their services over the non-payments.

They are questioning why their meagre salaries are delayed despite working diligently for them.

“How much is this money that you cannot pay us? Every month you receive your salaries, but we must suffer. We have family to take care of,” they added.

Reacting to the calls, Ashanti Regional YEA Coordinator, Seth Twumasi, says discussions are ongoing to settle the arrears.

“Although we recruited them, the YEA does not pay the sanitation module beneficiaries directly from its coffers. Government’s contract with Zoomlion is for the waste management company to pre-finance the payment of the beneficiaries and be reimbursed later. But we are working to ensure the continuous delay in paying the cleaners is resolved,” he assured.

The workers claim the nonpayment is severely affecting their economic well-being, with many facing dire consequences such as being bedridden.

A team leader, Johnson Asiamah, spoke with Citi News, stating, “We work for Zoomlion across the country, employed by the Youth Employment Agency, and our allowances for about 18 months have not been paid.

“We have been with the company for about 10, 15 to 18 years now. Some of our colleagues have died because they couldn’t afford medical treatment, others have been evicted from their homes due to unpaid rent, and many are currently bedridden.

“We’re pleading with management to consider our allowances so we can take care of ourselves and our children. We urge the YEA to facilitate our payments. If our allowances are not paid within two weeks, we will lay down our tools.”

He expressed his pleasure at seeing the streets of Accra’s CBD clean and healthy, and extolled the efforts of those involved in the exercise.

His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II made the commendation during an inspection tour of the selected areas.

Accompanied by senior officers of the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council (GARCC) and Asafoatsemei of the Ga State, he visited various locations, including Rawlings Park, CMB, Makola, and Tudu, to assess the progress of the exercise.

Saturday’s clean-up was the first phase of the one-month Homowo clean-up initiative, a collaborative effort between the Ga Mantse, government agencies, and Zoomlion Ghana Limited.

The Ga Mantse assured that the exercise will be sustained after the Homowo festivities.

“We will ensure that this exercise goes beyond the Homowo celebrations and becomes a regular feature in Accra”, he said.

He, however, cautioned that the special task force will be patrolling in Accra from tomorrow to see to it that the city is clean.

“Those who will be found flouting the sanitation by-laws will be dragged to the sanitation court and prosecuted to serve as deterrent,” Nii Teiko Tsuru II warned.

The Ga Mantse also used the opportunity to advise Ghanaians to ensure that “we all play our part as citizens to ensure a peaceful, free and fair poll on December 7”.

The 5-hour exercise was led by a dedicated team of Asafoatsemei, Asafoanymei, and environmental sanitation officers, who are the Special Task Force and Zoomlion Ghana Limited.

Zoomlion provided the necessary resources, including garbage trucks, personnel, and equipment.

The Zoomlion team included the Chief Operating Officer for the Environment and Sanitation Cluster of the Jospong Group of Companies (JGC), Mrs. Florence Larbi, and the Chief Corporate Communication Officer, JGC, Madam Sophia Kudjordi.

Security personnel from the Ghana Police Service and Ghana Armed Forces ensured security and compliance.

The team worked tirelessly to ensure that the streets and surroundings were thoroughly cleaned, leaving the areas spotless and hygienic.

The Director of Communications and Corporate Affairs of Zoomlion, Madam Emma Adwoa Appiaa Osei- Duah, encouraged, especially the traders, hawkers and shop owners, to take active part in the exercise for their own safety.

According to her, unsanitary conditions bring about diseases which can affect them and people who patronise their goods and services.

She urged the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to enforce the sanitation by-laws to ensure cleanliness in Accra.

The company has donated a fleet of ultra modern pick-ups, waste management logistics, motorbikes, wheelbarrows, long brooms, gloves, shovels, and other essential equipment.

The donation highlights Zoomlion, a member of the Jospong Group of Companies (JGC), commitment to promoting cleanliness and sanitation in the country, demonstrating its dedication to supporting a cleaner and healthier environment for all.

The Homowo clean-up campaign, which kick starts on July 2 – August 2, 2024, aims to bring together community members and stakeholders to promote cleanliness and foster a sense of responsibility towards the environment.

At a ceremony in Accra on Monday, July 1, the Managing Director of the JGC, Dr. Beatrice Amponsah presented the items on behalf of the Executive Chairman of the group, Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong, to the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Honourable Daniel Nii Kwartei Titus-Glover.

She reaffirmed Zoomlion’s commitment to promoting a clean and healthy environment, aligning with its core mission.

“At Zoomlion, our main aim is to ensure a clean and healthy environment, which is our hallmark. We are very proud to be part of this significant occasion, partnering with the RCC to present items that will ensure the smooth running of the exercise,” she said.

Dr. Beatrice Amponsah emphasised the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining sanitation and announced awards for the cleanest clans to foster a competitive spirit.

She also acknowledged the challenges faced, particularly with individual attitudes, and highlighted the involvement of traditional authorities to ensure a lasting impact.

“We have faced challenges, particularly with the attitudinal actions of our people. Despite our continuous efforts, individual behaviours often hinder progress. That’s why we decided to involve our chiefs, who are in charge of home affairs, to make the initiative more effective,” she underscored.

The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Hon. Titus-Glover received the items on behalf of the President, Regional Coordinating Council (RCC), Ga Chiefs, and Ga Traditional Council (GTC), led by His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II.

He expressed gratitude for Zoomlion’s support and urged everyone to help keep Accra clean, aiming to make it the cleanest city in West Africa.

Mr. Titus-Glover stated that the exercise, involving various stakeholders, will help address improper waste disposal and transportation, generating approximately 800-1,000 metric tons of refuse daily in Accra.

He went on to explain that the campaign will also seek to sustain the environment, with environmental health officers ensuring sensitisation and enforcing regulations.

“Environmental Health Officers will visit various houses to ensure sensitisation goes well, and anyone who violates any environmental regulations will be charged and sanctioned,” he warned.

The Regional Minister urged the media to serve as advocates for the initiative’s success, using their platforms to promote awareness and support for the clean-up exercise.

“I also plead with the media to be advocates for this exercise, helping to educate the public on the importance of keeping the environment clean,” he appealed.

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Addressing the colourful durbar of chiefs, people, and departmental heads of state institutions at Nwawasua near Sunyani, the Minister, who is also the Member of Parliament for the Ayawaso West Wugon Constituency took the opportunity to praise the chiefs and people of the Bono Region touting the resilience of the region in always keeping their environment clean.

She said when it comes to cleanliness Bono Region, particularly Sunyani is always clean by all standards.

She believes that it was partly because of the concern and frantic efforts taken by the traditional rulers and the people themselves to maintain a clean environment.

Ms Lydia also mentioned that the time has come for Ghana to celebrate the successes chalked in waste management infrastructural transformation following Jospong Group’s construction of 16 waste treatment and recycling plants across the regions in the past four years with 10 of them being operational while six are at various levels of completion.

She showered praises on the Executive Chairman and the entire management and staff of the Jospong Group of Companies for transforming the waste management industry of Ghana.

According to her, the strategic establishment of the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources by the President, H. E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to spearhead policy formulation and create an enabling environment for the private sector to thrive towards a cleaner Ghana was anchored by the likes of Dr Joseph Siaw Agyepong.

This has resulted in the many waste infrastructure springing up in Ghana today.

The Minister further appealed to the people of Sunyani to embrace the facility and channel their waste to it for processing and recycling especially composting the organic waste for agricultural purposes and the recycling of plastics for household and recreational uses.

Minister Ophelia Mensah Hayford of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MESTI) and Member of Parliament for Mfamsipim stated that global warming is a significant contributor to climate change, impacting the environment.

She highlighted that the initiatives by the Jospong Group of Companies exemplify effective climate change mitigation.

She was not surprised that, due to these efforts, the Swiss government invited Ghana to participate in the carbon trading market, which is anticipated to boost the country’s economy.

Madam Hayford encouraged Ghanaians to actively combat indiscriminate waste disposal and other practices contributing to climate change.

The Executive Chairman of the Jospong Group of Companies, Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong, reminisced about the modest beginnings of Zoomlion Ghana Limited, which started in Bolgatanga with just a manual tricycle.

He attributed the company’s growth to prayers, commitment, and resilience, expressing gratitude to God.

Dr. Agyepong thanked the chiefs and people of the Bono Region, particularly the Nwawasua Chief and Queen Mother, for providing land for a new facility serving the entire Bono Region.

Reflecting on Ghana’s history, Dr. Agyepong compared the current industrialization efforts to those led by Nkrumah in the 1960s, which significantly boosted the economy.

He expressed support for President Nana Addo’s One District, One Factory (1D1F) initiative, seeing it as a means to industrialize Ghana and expand opportunities in sectors where he excels.

The new facility, set to produce 150,000 tons of organic fertilizer annually, aims to enhance agriculture in Bono Region and nationwide.

Dr. Agyepong sees waste as a “misplaced resource” and encourages others to repurpose waste into valuable assets.

He assured that the facility would include a research center for local tertiary institutions to study waste components and applications, promising that most workers would be locally employed.

The Bono Regional Minister, Justina Awo Owusu-Banahene, lauded President Nana Addo Dankwa Akuffu-Addo and Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong for situating the facility in her region, anticipating it would create jobs and process regional waste efficiently.

She noted that the plant could handle up to 400 tons of waste per day, aligning with the region’s daily waste generation.

This plant is expected to foster tourism and other opportunities in the region.

Additionally, the facility will include 1,000 motor kings from Jospong for waste collection in Sunyani, providing jobs for many young people.

The company also conducted a comprehensive clean-up exercise in areas surrounding Accra Mall, Spintex and Villagio residency, demonstrating its commitment to climate change and environmental sustainability.

The Managing Director, Mrs. Gloria Opoku-Anti emphasized the significance of the theme “Land restoration desertification and drought resilience” and urged citizens to take responsibility for environmental protection through regular clean-ups and avoiding littering.

She stressed that individual actions can collectively make a significant impact in maintaining a healthy environment.

Mrs Opoku-Anti also called for the enforcement of environmental laws and regulations to deter individuals and organizations from engaging in practices harmful to the environment.

She highlighted the importance of tree planting in improving carbon credits, which is crucial in the fight against climate change.

The event aligns with World Environment Day’s global mission to raise awareness and promote sustainable living practices, with celebrations held in over 100 countries.

Zoomlion’s initiative demonstrates its dedication to environmental stewardship and encourages others to join in the effort to protect our planet.

Zoomlion Ghana Ltd, a leading waste management company in Africa and a member of the Jospong Group of Companies, has marked World Environment Day with a tree planting exercise at Tetteh Quashie Roundabout in Accra.

The company also conducted a comprehensive clean-up exercise in areas surrounding Accra Mall, Spintex and Villagio residency, demonstrating its commitment to climate change and environmental sustainability.

The Managing Director, Mrs. Gloria Opoku-Anti emphasized the significance of the theme “Land restoration desertification and drought resilience” and urged citizens to take responsibility for environmental protection through regular clean-ups and avoiding littering.

She stressed that individual actions can collectively make a significant impact in maintaining a healthy environment.

Mrs Opoku-Anti also called for the enforcement of environmental laws and regulations to deter individuals and organizations from engaging in practices harmful to the environment.

She highlighted the importance of tree planting in improving carbon credits, which is crucial in the fight against climate change.

The event aligns with World Environment Day’s global mission to raise awareness and promote sustainable living practices, with celebrations held in over 100 countries.

Zoomlion’s initiative demonstrates its dedication to environmental stewardship and encourages others to join in the effort to protect our planet.

The launch event took place on Friday, 31st May 2024, with the Shai Osudoku District Education Directorate, marking the beginning of a broader initiative set to extend to all districts in the Greater Accra Region.

The Regional Director of Education, Mr. Stephen Abamfo, highlighted the criticality of proper waste management across the country and its institutions.

He underscored the need to instil a zero-waste mindset in students, advocating for them to become ambassadors of sustainable practices.

“I will issue a communique to all district education directors to ensure that all students embrace and promote the zero waste initiative,” he stated.

The Shai Osudoku District Education Director, Mrs Harriet Lomotey, emphasized the importance of collective effort from all stakeholders to ensure the success of the zero waste initiative.

“As educators, we must make zero waste a way of life through the principles of reduce, reuse, and recycle,” the Director said.

As part of the project, recycling will be integrated into visual arts programs, where students will transform waste materials into creative artefacts.

Additionally, nominated advocates will maintain ongoing efforts to keep the community engaged and accountable.

The initiative will also feature an essay competition on zero waste at least once each term, fostering further student involvement and awareness.

Apostle Theophilus Kusi, from the Chaplaincy Department of Zoomlion, delivered the keynote address on behalf of the managing director.

Citing scriptures, he stressed humanity’s responsibility to care for the environment, asserting that education is key to achieving this goal.

Apostle Kusi praised the Shai Osudoku district education directorate for its proactive approach and urged all stakeholders to propagate the zero waste message.

Mr. Noah Sabutey, representing the District Chief Executive of Shai Osudoku, expressed his gratitude for the initiative’s commencement in the district and pledged the assembly’s full support towards the project’s success.

The Zoomlion Foundation Coordinator, Mr Thomas Narh Korley, stated that the Zero Waste Project in Shai Osudoku is a pioneering step towards environmental sustainability, leveraging education to foster a culture of waste reduction and recycling among the younger generation.

Mr. Korley expressed the belief that teachers have the potential to drive innovation among students, which can push the zero waste initiative forward.

The Sustainable Zero Waste Initiative will instil sustainable waste management practices in the next generation, promoting a cleaner, greener, and healthier environment for all.

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As a result, they no longer pick waste from these households, a development Zoomlion says the affected individuals are aware of.

The Communications Manager, Ernest Morgan Acquah, disclosed this in an interview on Accra-based Citi TV in the wake of complaints about uncollected waste.

“Most people who complain that over three months waste has not been collected have been blacklisted, they are aware. We should know that the waste collection that we’re doing is a private business, and individuals must also do their part.

“Individuals have to pay for their waste but most people think that there’s a segment of waste that is paid by government and so their individual waste should be paid by government as well,” he explained.

Stressing Zoomlion’s commitment to superior customer service, Mr Acquah said the company has begun a pay as you dump system in some areas.

“When you talk of Ashaiman, part of Sahara in Ablekuma West, Oyarifa and some other areas, we’ve resorted to pay as you dump because we service them on regular basis and at the end of the month, they don’t pay.

“Most companies come into the waste management system, and they die out because they don’t get the money back to continue to do the work,” he bemoaned.

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She emphasized the historical significance of climate and weather on human health and stressed the necessity for our collective action to combat the repercussions of the phenomena.

Mrs. Anti highlighted the direct correlation that exist between environmental health and workplace safety, emphasizing the importance of protecting both employees and the planet.

The effects of climate change, primarily driven by human activities, pose numerous risks to workers across Zoomlion and its subsidiaries. Increasing temperatures expose outdoor workers to heat stress, jeopardizing their well-being and productivity.

Additionally, she explained that extreme weather events such as floods and wildfires disrupt operations and pose economic as well as health challenges for workers. Pollution and deforestation further compound health risks, highlighting the interconnectedness of environmental degradation and occupational safety.

In response to these challenges, Mrs. Anti called for a comprehensive approach that includes both adaptation and mitigation strategies. She advocated for measures to prevent heat stress, improve emergency preparedness, and reduce carbon emissions through the adoption of renewable energy and sustainable policies.

Beyond policies and practices, Mrs. Anti stressed the importance of a shift in mindset and values, recognizing the interdependence of human health, environmental well-being, and social equity. She urged all everyone to build a commitment to creating safe, healthy, and sustainable environments where all workers can thrive.

As World Safety Day was observed, Mrs. Anti reaffirmed Zoomlion’s dedication to this important cause, expressing solidarity with workers worldwide affected by the impacts of climate change on occupational health and safety. She also extended heartfelt appreciation to those championing safety and well-being, whose efforts inspire progress toward a safer future.

The proactive stance of Zoomlion Ghana Limited in addressing the impact of climate change on occupational safety serves as a commendable example, underscoring the importance of prioritizing the welfare of workers and the environment in corporate practices.

Alone with this, Mr. Ernest Kusi, the Director of Monitoring Service Quality at Zoomlion, led management to pledge to uphold safety protocols at the workplace and at home.

Symbolically signing the pledge, he encouraged other management members to follow suit, leading by example in promoting safety while contributing to climate change mitigation efforts.
He urged all not to forget the theme for the celebration this year, which is “Exploring the impact of climate change on occupational Safety and and health”.

Hajia Rahmatu Tahwee Sheikh Sharubutu, passed on in the early hours of Wednesday, March 27, 2024. She has so far been buried in accordance with Islamic tradition. Prior to the burial, Janazah prayers were said in the residence of the National Chief Imam.

The Manager of Monitoring and Service Quality of Zoomlion Ghana Ltd., Alhaji Abdulai Abdullah, who led the delegation explained that the visit was to enable the company to be abreast with programmes and activities earmarked to celebrate the life of the late wife of the National Chief Imam.

“As part of tradition, the Executive Chairman and management asked that we come and sympathise with the Chief Imam and his family and assure him of our support in this trying times,” he noted.

The national Chief Imam prayed for God’s protection for the Executive Chairman of Jospong Group, Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong, adding that “God should bless and reward you in all your endeavours”.

The Chief Imam informed the delegation that the family will observe the 40 days of the passing of Hajia Ramatu Sharubutu on May 5, 2024.

The family of the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, yesterday announced the passing of his wife.

A statement issued by the Chief Imam’s spokesperson, Sheikh Armiyawo Shaibu, indicated that she died on Wednesday, March 27, although the cause of her death is not yet known.

Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, in a Facebook post, has also expressed his condolences to the Chief Imam and the entire Muslim community.

The clean-up, named the “Cleanest Region Campaign Model Clean-up Exercise,” is part of Zoomlion and Graphic Communications’ collaboration aimed at rewarding the cleanest region in Ghana

The clean-up exercise, which is the first after the launch of the cleaner region campaign, is also aimed at keeping Koforidua clean ahead of the independence Day celebrations on March 6, 2024.

The Communications and Corporate Affairs Director of Zoomlion Ghana Limited, Emma Adwoa Appiaa Osei-Duah, explained that, as the region gears up to host this year’s Independence Day celebrations it was good and imperative to clean the city as it will host both local and international dignitaries on the day.

She added that the promoters of the campaign have had engagements with the citizens and have made them understand that it is their responsibility to be part of the solution by keeping their environment clean.

“This coming Wednesday is Independence Day so as part of the ‘cleanest region campaign’ we came to support the region to keep the city clean and also sensitize them on the need to regularly keep the environment clean,” she stated.

She added that by regularly keeping their environment clean, it will help to reduce the spread of diseases and reduce the health bill of both the country and the citizens.

The Adverts Sales Manager at Graphic Communications Group Ltd, George Danso, commended the traders and shop owners in Koforidua for their cooperation by closing down their shops to participate in the exercise as part of efforts to keep the environment, market and parks are clean.

“We are happy and encouraged that everybody has come onboard to help us to ensure that we have a successful event,” he stated.

He stressed that “A healthy nation is a wealthy nation, we are breadwinners so we shouldn’t forget that once we are keeping ourselves and the environment clean, we will always be strong to deliver.”

He advised stakeholders of the need to sustain the exercise and be cautious of how the environment is protected and maintained.

Background

Zoomlion Ghana Limited and Graphic Communications launched a campaign to rank all 16 regions in Ghana and name the cleanest in terms of environmental sanitation.

The campaign which was launched at the HO Central Market in the Volta region will rank all regions on proper waste management methods, hygiene and general sanitation practices which will attain a score of 60% by the assessment team as well as 40% votes from the public, using the ‘USSD’ code 8577#.

The campaign is expected to drive community participation by the involvement of people, schools, businesses, and local organizations by engaging in clean-ups, recycling programs, and tree planting initiatives.

The campaign is also being supported by the Environmental Service Providers Association(ESPA) and NERASOL IT Solutions.

The recruits who were trained at the Army Peace Operations Training School (APOTS) at Bundase Training Camp were taken through an intensive two-weeks training in basic management skills, drill, cleaning, self-discipline, physical fitness, time management, team work, crowd control among others.

The Director of Service Quality and Monitoring at Zoomlion Ghana Limited, Ernest Kusi at the passing out ceremony indicated that service excellence is a key value of the company and for that reason the training was organized to enhance the skills of the team in self-discipline, resilient, team work, leadership and adapt to challenges whiles working among crowds.

He said the training will position the team to effectively deliver effective sanitation services at the 13th All African Games at the various sports centers.

Mr. Kusi pointed out that the experience of the company in providing sanitation services as demonstrated at major sports tournaments such as CAN 2008 and CAN 2010 in Ghana and Angola respectively will be brought to bare by ensuring all sports facilities are kept clean at all times.

The Commander at the APOTS, Colonel Clement Dingane, in a statement indicated the school has been certified by the United Nations and is one of its kind in West Africa in peace operations training.

He said the training center receives and trains personnel in self-discipline which is an essential requisite in attaining organizational goals.

Col. Dingane was optimistic that the training provided will shape and transform the recruits to be self-disciplined in delivery their services.

The 13th African Games are expected to be held in Ghana between 8 – 23 March 2024.

This is the second time in history that the games will be decentralized, as three cities in the host country will host the event. The cities chosen for these events are Accra, Kumasi, and Cape Coast.

The initiative is aimed at involving teacher trainees to be champions of environmental education nationwide.

Launching the initiative in Accra on February 9, 2024, the Writers Bureau Manager of Zoomlion Ghana Limited, Robert Kwaku Adjei, speaking on behalf of the Managing Director of Zoomlion, emphasised that the company through this initiative is nurturing a community of passionate individuals who will be actors in the sanitation space soon.

He added that the initiative also signifies a momentous juncture in addressing waste management and climate change in the country.

The event on the theme ‘Achieving Zero Waste: The Role of The Teacher Trainee in Combating Climate Change’, was also used to unveil the Green Generation Champions – an environmental club for tertiary institutions.

The Principal of Accra College of Education, Prof. Samuel A. Atintono, was of the view that the sustainable management of waste is a critical component of global efforts to mitigate climate change, present and preserve the planet for future generations.

“The time is up for all especially our young teacher trainees to rise to work towards achieving zero waste to recover the negative impact of climate change,” he urged.

According to him, the onus is on citizens to improve consumption patterns and adopt sustainable waste management practices that protect the environment including recycling of waste.

The National Coordinator of Zoomlion Foundation, Thomas Narh Korley, observed that one of the key things that Zoomlion has committed resources and commitment to is the mobilization of the youth and children to change the sanitation narrative in the country.

He explained that even though Zoomlion’s public education programmes have achieved remarkable results, they still needed to educate citizens on reducing, re-using and recycling waste instead of dumping it in landfills which results in environmental and health hazards.

“We are therefore drumming home that waste is a resource and we need everyone to appreciate that fact and lean towards benefiting from it,” he stressed.

He added that the Foundation agreed to work with the Accra College of Education because they see the teacher trainees as key stakeholders in involving children and the youth to impact the knowledge of transforming waste into a resource.

“So when they become professional teachers they would not find it difficult at all in working with children and the youth to transform waste into resources,” he emphasized.

He added that Agenda Zero Waste will be replicated in all tertiary institutions, particularly teacher training colleges.

The President of the Student Representative Council (SRC), Richmond Adjei, explaining the rationale behind the programme said there was so much filth on campus.

To address it they decided to collaborate with Zoomlion to bring a lasting solution to the challenge.

“The collaboration birthed agenda zero waste and the establishment of Generation Champions GGC,” he added.

“Zoomlion has done a great job for us by offering us a lot of support including the provision of waste bins to promote waste management on campus,” he mentioned.

He further added that the SRC will not rest there, but will lobby for more support to push the agenda.

He encouraged other tertiary institutions to emulate this initiative and institute programs that will prompt students to promote good sanitation.

Zoomlion is providing training for the Green Generation Champions and resources for the implementation of the Agenda Zero Waste Project.

The Director of Communications and Corporate Affairs at Zoomlion Ghana Ltd. who leads the team Ms. Emma Adwoa Appiaa Osei-Duah, received the coveted title of Exemplary Communications Personality of the Year (Female).

Simultaneously, her dynamic department clinched the title of Communications and Corporate Affairs Team of the Year in the Private Sector.

Under the theme “Ghana’s Digital Economy: Emerging with Resilience,” the event unfolded over the weekend, drawing together a diverse assembly of stakeholders, industry experts, government officials, innovators, and thought leaders in the digitalization realm.

The Chief Executive Officer of RADCOM Communications Limited, Richmond Anim Damoah, highlighted that the Digitalization Impact Edition serves as a milestone celebration, uniting key players to recognize outstanding achievements shaping Ghana’s digital landscape.

Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, MP, Tamale South, conveyed a message on behalf of the Guest of Honour, H.E John Dramani Mahama, encouraging stakeholders to harness the potential of the digital space and rally behind the government and relevant entities to propel Ghana to international acclaim.

Among the notable awardees and institutions at the event were Mrs. Adelaide Araba Siaw Agyepong (Asian Africa Consortium), Dr. Nick Danso Adjei-Ghana Link Network Services, Mr. William Boateng-Director of Communications, ECG, Mr. Stanley Martey-Director of Communications, Ghana Water Company Limited, America International School, Subbah Info Solution, Goil Ghana Limited, KGL Group, ABSA Bank, Oyerepa TV, UTV, and others.

Established in 2006, Zoomlion Ghana Limited, a proud member of the Environmental Services Providers Association and ISWMA, is a Ghanaian-owned company at the forefront of providing comprehensive waste management solutions.

As part of the Jospong Group of Companies, Zoomlion collaborates with 23 sister companies, collectively dedicated to achieving total waste management solutions.

The exercise is part of a vector control programme aimed at reducing the incidence of communicable diseases in the community.

The fumigation has become necessary following the spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong hydro-electric dams which flooded various communities and displaced nearly 40,000 people in the North, South and Central Tongu districts of the Volta Region.

Some residents of Ada, Asuogyaman, and Shai Osudoku were also affected by the spillage which saw several homes submerged, while farmlands and fish farming livelihood projects were destroyed completely.

Shrines of traditional priests in some of the communities were not spared either by the floods, compelling the heads of those facilities to flee their homes. 

CSR

Officials of Vectorpes, a subsidiary of the Jospong Group, which is carrying out the fumigation, said the exercise was aimed to make the flooded communities more habitable after the floodwaters had receded.  

The General Manager in charge of Vector Control at the Jospong Group, Ebenezer Kwame Addae, said the one-month project to be undertaken in six districts of the Volta, Greater Accra and Eastern regions, was part of the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR).

Mepe, Battor, and Aveyime are among 13 communities in the North Tongu District that are benefiting from the project.

A total of 21 communities from South Tongu, Central Tongu, Shai Osudoku, Asuogyaman and Lower Manya Krobo will also benefit from the exercise.   

No contract

Addressing journalists at Battor on the exercise which commenced on Sunday, October 29, this year, Rev. Dr Addae debunked rumours that the project was being undertaken at a fee as part of a contractual agreement between the company and the Volta River Authority (VRA).

“It is public knowledge that our Managing Director, during a recent donation of relief support to the government for the victims, announced that the company will undertake the exercise as part of our corporate social responsibility, and the VRA is only providing guidance for the exercise since they have an extensive knowledge of the affected communities that might have to benefit from the project,” Rev. Addae explained.

He said what the company was doing was a pure corporate social responsibility as directed by the Executive Chairman of the Jospong Group.

“I challenge anyone who says we are doing this at a fee to produce the contract guiding the exercise,” he said.

He said whereas similar exercises were done during the COVID-19 outbreak, “this time, this is being done free of charge in line with humanitarian assistance to our brothers in the affected areas,” he stressed.

He pointed out that though the VRA sought the company’s assistance to undertake the project, they made it clear to the officials that they had already committed themselves to undertaking the exercise in the spirit of social responsibility.

Zoomlion, he said, was only giving back to society what it had gained from it.

Commenting on its contractual agreements with district assemblies across the country, Rev. Addae said the company had a disinfection of public places of convenience and other related activities as directed by the assemblies, and the company’s presence in the area was as a result of the disaster associated with the spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong Dams.

“We only beefed up our CSR activities to help the people in need and there is no existing contract on any form of emergency disinfection/fumigation”, Rev. Addae emphasised. 

MCE

The MCE for North Tongu, Divine Osborne Fenu, while giving an update of the situation, said the flood in most of the affected areas were receding gradually, hence the fumigation exercise being carried out by Zoomlion.

He said while the homes that had dried up would require a structural integrity assessment before the owners could move in, officials had been informed that some persons were moving into their homes.

“The goal is to get the fumigation done after which the technical people will move in to conduct these tests.

We are setting up a team to undertake sensitisation at the holding shelters to dissuade people from moving into these homes without any proper assessment done on their structures,” Mr Fenu said. 

On education, he said whereas not all the 21 holding shelters had makeshift learning system in place for children, the stakeholders were working around the clock to ensure that the resettlement homes being constructed by the Firsk Sky Group would be completed in time so people could be moved into them to make way for the use of the classrooms serving as shelters to revert to teaching and learning.

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He said they are baseless and without factual basis to stand on.

Dr. Addai was addressing the media in Bator, district capital of the North Tongu District Assembly during one of their disinfection and fumigation parades today.

He said Zoomlion and the Jospong Group have corporate social responsibility as one of it core mandates and that is the reason why at any point in time some section of Ghanaians are in a bad state, the company falls in to stand with the people. He cited the company’s proactiveness during the Covid – 19 pandemic, the Apeate Gas explosion and many others.

On Monday 23rd October 2023, Zoomlion Ghana Limited led by its Executives and Management presented a number of relief items worth over 500,000 cedis to the victims of the spillage.

A sister company, Ecozoil Limited also donated almost 500 life jackets to the media and rescue team supporting the situation on the ground. At the same presentation event, the Managing Director of Zoomlion Ghana Limited, Mrs. Gloria Opoku Anti, in addition to the items presented announced the company’s preparedness to also fumigate the affected areas once the water had finally receded.

Dr. Addai therefore asked the question “where lies the allegation that we had a contract from VRA to undertake fumigation exercise?”.

Due to the announcement that was made by our MD, VRA called on Saturday to say that the water had receded in parts of the affected area and we confirmed from key players on the ground and rushed to the venue as we were told some of the victims were returning home already and then some sycophantic elements in the media fell in to feed fat and conclude that we were contracted to carry out such exercise so what happen to our MD’s promise?

“We are aware that the writer of the story Mr. Awuni indicated that we have contract with the assemblies to do fumigation already and another with Ministry of Health on disinfection but he doesn’t know that all contracts have scope.

Our mandate with the Assembly is to do disinfestation at public toilets, refuse spots, communal container sites and some selected few other places on quarterly bases under the supervision of the Environmental Health Officers in the assemblies. Again our contract with the Ministry of Health is on malaria control so we do lavaeciding and disinfection on stagnant waters and bushes withing the communities. These are completely different from fumigation.
He said they are not the same.

Dr. Addai said when you fumigate it takes well over 5 hours for occupancy and after disinfestation and disinfection only 30 minutes is required for occupancy so where is the concocted lies coming from?

“As media, you do not know everything, so what you do is to ask, don’t go about peddling falsehood against a brand that has stood the weather all this while and this has persisted for well over 10 years now. That is wickedness, isn’t it?” he quizzed.

“Zoomlion and it’s subsidiaries will continue to disinfect and fumigate the areas to ensure that it is safe for the residents to occupy it alongside with the water recession. We will not be distracted by any wicked or unprofessional journalism, we will continue to work for a better Ghana” the Vector MD noted.

The management has described the reports as misleading, false, and unfounded.

According to a statement issued by the communication directorate, the fumigation exercise was an initiative by the company.

The statement explained that, the pledge was made on Monday, October 23, 2023, when Zoomlion presented relief items worth over GH¢500,000 and a sister company, Ecozoil, also donated almost 500 life jackets to the media and rescue team supporting the situation on the ground.

Zoomlion says it is therefore regrettable that some people will choose to overlook these notable humanitarian efforts in support of the flood victims.

“We remain unwavering in our commitment to upholding our corporate social responsibility and providing steadfast support to the communities in the Volta Region and in other ways to our
mother Ghana, despite the unwarranted distractions caused by such baseless accusations,” the statement noted.

Meanwhile, Zoomlion has reassured all stakeholders of its dedication to serving and uplifting communities remains resolute and will continue to prioritise the well-being and support of those in need, irrespective of such false allegations.

ALSO READ:

• Zoomlion donates over GH¢500,000 worth of items to Akosombo dam spillage victims

• VRA begins disinfection and fumigation exercise in Mepe as flood waters recede   

Below is the full statement:

“From 27th to the 29th of October, we expect shops and offices in the Central business district to remain closed,” said Lady Justice Naa-Yarlay Adjei Amoah, Chief of Staff at the office of the Ga Mantse.

Justice Amoah, who doubles as the Secretary to Central Funeral Planning Committee of the late Ga Manye, added that “we also expect them to decorate their business premises with black and red drippings”.

The various markets are also to cover all their surroundings in black and red because “we are mourning together; it’s not just the palace so we are respectfully calling on all to cooperate with us in this time of grief.”

Lady Justice Amoah made this known when a delegation from Jospong Group of Companies led by Mrs. Adokarley Okpoti- Paulo, Group Financial Controller for Environmental & Sanitation Group/ Finance Director of Zoomlion Ghana Limited signed the book of condolence at the Ga Traditional Council on Friday September 8, 2023.

The Group presented a box of schnapps, a box of Castle Bridge gin, bottles of Red label whiskey, boxes of soft drinks and mineral water as well as refuse bins and an undisclosed cash donation to support preparations towards the final funeral rites of the late Ga Manye.

Presenting the items, Mrs. Okpoti-Paulo, said the gesture was to console and mourn with the elders for the great loss.

She announced that, Zoomlion Ghana Ltd., a subsidiary of the group will take charge of all the sanitation related issues during the funeral.

“Zoomlion will help to keep the surroundings clean during and after the funeral ceremony to ensure that the Ga State is clean at all times,” she promised.

Receiving the items, Nii Ahene Nunoo III, commended the Group for the gesture and prayed for long life for the Executive Chairman of the Group.

The final funeral rites of the late Ga Manye, who passed away in December last year will be held on 15th to 31st October.

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo was the first to sign the book of condolence on the June 19, 2023.

This innovative initiative, unveiled just last month, is poised to transform the way waste management transactions are conducted, leading the nation towards a cleaner and more technologically advanced future. With the catchy slogan “Change your borla style,” Zoomlion has embarked on a journey to transform the waste management landscape through its novel *857# payment system.

Gone are the days of cash payments and paper receipts and early morning knocks at your gate by revenue collectors. Zoomlion has spearheaded a transformative shift towards a cashless waste management system.

The heart of this digital transformation is the *857# payment platform, a simple yet ingenious solution designed to streamline payments for customers while fostering an environment of responsible waste management practices. The primary goal of this initiative is to leverage technology’s power to understand and serve customers better, while simultaneously promoting a greener and cleaner nation.

The launch of the payment platform was accompanied by a vibrant “launch CARAVAN” that traversed through various key areas, including Madina Zongo Junction, Atomic Junction, Legon, Okponglo, and Accra Central. Young individuals clad in Zoomlion’s signature white t-shirts animatedly distributed informative flyers about the new digital app.

These enthusiastic ambassadors also took the time to educate Ghanaians on how to seamlessly use the app to pay their waste bills, all while dancing to the rhythm of change.

During the launch event, Managing Director of Zoomlion Private Services, Edwin Amoako unveiled the simplicity and effectiveness of the *857# payment system. A mobile phone is all that’s required to initiate payments. By dialing *857#, customers can follow straightforward prompts, including selecting the waste payment option, entering their customer ID, specifying the amount, and pressing send. This user-friendly approach epitomizes Zoomlion’s commitment to hussle-free waste management solutions tailored to customers’ needs.

In the age of heightened environmental consciousness, Zoomlion’s initiative is a testament to the company’s dedication to creating efficient waste management solutions that cater to clients’ specific requirements.

The suite of digital payment solutions, available through USSD code *857# and the Zoomlion Application on Apple IOS and Google Play Store, aims to provide unmatched convenience and peace of mind to both existing and new clients.

This digital transformation offers a multitude of benefits, ranging from real-time data analytics for tracking payments to multiple payment platforms (smartphone, analog, IOS, or Android), on-demand waste management services, and easy access to Zoomlion for queries and feedback.

In addition, clients who adopt the digital platforms for advance payments will enjoy exclusive discounts and value-added services for a limited period, underscoring Zoomlion’s commitment to serving its customers comprehensively.

Mr. Amoako, emphasised that the introduction of the digital payment system signifies Zoomlion’s dedication to innovation and service excellence. With an unwavering focus on creating a cleaner, better Ghana for present and future generations, Zoomlion aims to continue its partnership with various payment portals to optimize customer service.

The launch of the *857# payment system garnered praise from none other than the Mayor of Accra, Mrs. Elizabeth Sackey. She commended Zoomlion for aligning with the city’s digital agenda and stressed the importance of responsible waste management in building a better society. Mrs. Sackey’s endorsement underscores the significance of Zoomlion’s digital revolution and its potential to transform waste management practices nationwide.

In conclusion, Zoomlion’s transition to a “CASHLESS” waste management system through the *857# payment platform is a monumental step towards efficiency, convenience, and environmental responsibility. As the company pioneers the way for technological advancement in waste management, Ghanaians can look forward to a cleaner, greener future, one digital payment at a time. “Change your borla style” with Zoomlion and be part of the movement that is reshaping waste management for the better.

The Committee said the cancelation of the contract has become necessary because the assemblies cannot “vouch” for the integrity and composition of chemicals used during the fumigation process.

“The Committee observed with concerned (sic) that the Fumigation contract between the Assemblies and Zoomlion Company may result in waste of Public Funds since it is difficult for the Assemblies to vouch for the chemicals being used by the Company for the fumigation exercise.”

The verification exercise is difficult for the assemblies and auditors too, the committee says.

“The Committee is therefore recommending to the Assemblies to not renew the contracts when the existing Agreements expire,” it concluded.

This recommendation is contained in the committee’s report on the Auditor-General’s report on the management and utilization of the District Assemblies Common Fund and other Statutory Funds for the year ending 2020.

The report was adopted by Parliament on July 11, 2023.

The Committee’s recommendation has been the crusade of some assembly members and officials in the country.

In 2017, for instance, the then District Environmental Officer of Kpandai in the Northern Region, Thomas Nkpetri, said the centralisation of the Zoomlion contract robbed the assemblies of their supervisory roles.

Fumigation in particular, I believe the effect of it is not being seen. You know how our township is and the rainy season and when the place becomes wet, they are a lot of stagnant water bodies in the system. But on the whole, whether the impact is being felt, I don’t believe so.

His concerns were reechoed by Matthew Dzakpa Mumuni, the Northern Region Environmental Health officer, who said, “Frankly, the chemicals that they used, I have not seen it before, but it’s a concern that there’s the need for us to know.”

The assemblies say they were pressured to sign the contracts with Zoomlion and payments for the contract are carried out in Accra. The District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) Secretariat deducts money from the assemblies’ share of the Common Fund and pays Zoomlion directly in Accra, whether or not the contract is carried out in the districts.

 Zoomlion received GHS 469,219,550 since 2015 for the fumigation exercise

Data from the DACF show that Zooomlion Ghana Limited has been paid GHS 469,219,550 in the last eight years, for the work the Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee calls “wastage of Public Funds.”

This contract has been running since 2010.

Zoomlion also receives about GHS 20 million every month for “managing” sweepers at the markets and public places in the assemblies. This contract is between Zoomlion and the Youth Employment Agency (YEA). The money is deducted as source and paid to the company. The assemblies do not control the payment.

Despite being paid this amount monthly, Zoomlion Ghana Limited in its budget pegs the cost of each worker at GH₵ 600  per month, but the company pays each worker GH₵ 180 and keeps the rest of the GH₵ 420 as management and logistics fees.

In February 2022, the Speaker of Parliament, Alban S.K. Bagbin directed the Employment and Labour Relations Committee, to investigate the matter.

When the sweepers of the markets collect and put the refuse in communal containers, Zoomlion Ghana Limited has separate contracts with all the assemblies in Ghana to lift the container to the final disposal sites.

This contract is called the Sanitation Improvement Package (SIP). This contract has existed since 2007 and even though the assemblies have expressed worries about its effectiveness, payment is made at the DACF.

The amount paid to Zoomlion Ghana Ltd for the Sanitation Improvement Package ( SIP) and Fumigation since 2015

All amounts in cedis

Source: District Assemblies Common Fund

Zoomlion’s ongoing contract with the government

Zoomlion GH. Ltd has two major contracts with the various MMDAs across the country, currently running – Sanitation Improvement Package (SIP) and Fumigation – aside from the Youth in Sanitation contract.

The SIP/YEA contracts were first signed under John Agyekum Kufuor’s administration and have been running despite many investigative reports and adverse findings against them by the Auditor-General.

The Auditor-General (A-G), in its annual report on the management and utilization of the District Assemblies Common Fund and other Statutory Funds, has, on countless occasions, cited Zoomlion for various contract breaches.

In most cases, the A-G recommended a stoppage of payments to the company and a refund of monies it undeservedly received. In some cases, it recommended an abrogation of the contracts.

However, the DACF administrator continues to deduct from the assemblies’ share of the DACF at source and pay to Zoomlion without even ascertaining, in almost all cases, whether the company has rendered services to, or has valid contracts with the assemblies to merit the payments.

This has resulted in payments made to the company for no work done. In a number of cases, payments were made without contractual agreements.

In outdoor spaces, large-scale spraying or fumigation in areas such as streets or open market places for the COVID-19 virus or other pathogens is not recommended. Streets and sidewalks are not considered routes of infection for COVID-19. Spraying disinfectants, even outdoors, can be noxious for people’s health and cause eye, respiratory, or skin irritation or damage.

In 2020, while Zoomlion Ghana Ltd was already being paid for its fumigation contracts in all assemblies across the country, President Akufo-Addo authorised the award of a contract to Zoomlion Ghana Ltd to fumigate schools, markets, and other public places to fight Covid-19. This was contrary to caution from the World Health Organisation that the measure was ineffective in the fight against the virus.

The so-called Covid-19 fumigation cost Ghana about GHS 500 million.

In addition, the District Assemblies Common Fund also paid Zoomlion Ghana Limited GHS 61,962,000.00 in 2020 for fumigation.

What the World Health Organisation says about Zoomlion-like fumigation contract in 2020

Issuing a notice on how countries may contain the deadly COVID-19, the World Health Organisation said outdoor and large-scale spraying in markets or streets was not recommended.

“In outdoor spaces, large-scale spraying or fumigation in areas such as streets or open market places for the COVID-19 virus or other pathogens is not recommended. Streets and sidewalks are not considered routes of infection for COVID-19. Spraying disinfectants, even outdoors, can be noxious for people’s health and cause eye, respiratory, or skin irritation or damage,” the caution, issued on March 31, 2022, said.

President Akufo-Addo nevertheless authorised the fumigation of schools.

Research and Policy Analyst at Policy Think Tank, Imani Ghana, Bright Simons, said at the time that the decision to contract Zoomlion Ghana Limited for a fumigation exercise was driven by commercial interest rather than public health interest.

Then Deputy Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Osei Bonsu Amoah told the media that he agrees with the assertion.

“Whoever says this spraying kills the virus is not being truthful. The spraying only coincided with the coronavirus,” he said in a media interview.

In 2017, an investigative report by JoyNews reporter, Manasseh Azure Awuni, now The Fourth Estate’s founding Editor-In-Chief, unearthed fresh allegations of corruption against the Jospong Group, the parent company of Zoomlion Ghana.

More Zoomlion scandals with the MMDAs fumigation and others

The report revealed that the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development had, in 2015, signed contracts worth GH¢98 million with 11 other subsidiaries of the Jospong Group of Companies to undertake fumigation exercises across the country when Zoomlion Ghana Limited had already been paid by the district assemblies and the Ministry of Health to do the same job through multiple contracts.

In 2016, a similar contract worth GHS 96 million was again awarded to the Jospong Group but there was no evidence of work done. The police investigated these scandals and submitted dockets to the Attorney-General but nothing came out of the investigation.

Manasseh’s “Robbing the Assemblies” investigation further exposed how the Jospong Group of Companies had inflated the cost of a waste bins contract awarded to it through sole-sourcing by at least GH¢130 million.

The 2020 Auditor-General’s Report recommended the retrieval of GHS 95 million cedis from Zoomlion’s sister company, Sewerage Systems GH. Ltd. The Auditor-General said the government had paid the money to the company without any contractual arrangement.

The government did not retrieve the money but proceeded to pay more to the company.

The Finance Ministry’s response to an RTI request by The Fourth Estate revealed that the Akufo-Addo government had disbursed GH¢156 million from the Sanitation and Pollution Levy imposed on Ghanaians to Sewerage Systems GH. Ltd.

The Auditor-General ordered the Administrator of the DACF, Irene Naa Torshie Addo, to recover the funds which went into waste treatment plant construction by the Sewerage Systems Ghana Limited (SSGL).

SSGL has been receiving the funds since 2016 without any legal backing, the Auditor-General said. However, the payment of GHc 19 million in 2020, being an outstanding amount for the GHS 95 million, triggered an enquiry by the Auditor-General.

For the years 2021 and 2022, even though the company committed similar contractual breaches resulting in financial losses to the state, the A-G failed to quantify the value of the losses.

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The warm wishes were extended on behalf of the Executive Chairman, Management, and staff of Zoomlion as the Ga State celebrate this year’s Homowo Festival.

During a short ceremony to donate various items to the King and the Traditional Council, Zoomlion appreciated the Ga Traditional Council for its support.

Making the donation at the residence of Ga Mantse on Friday, August 25, 2023 the Communications and Corporate Affairs Director of Zoomlion, Ms. Emma Adwoa Appiaa Osei-Duah used the occasion to reaffirm Zoomlion’s commitment to promoting sanitary practices and maintaining a clean Accra through partnership with the Traditional Council.

Ms Osei-Duah further highlighted Zoomlion’s dedication to supporting the Traditional Council and emphasized the establishment of 16 waste treatment plants across the country to enhance the health and well-being of Ghanaians.

She also introduced Zoomlion’s new Digital Payment Platform, *857#, which offers efficient and cashless transactions for Zoomlion’s door-to-door waste collection services, to advance responsible waste management practices nationwide.

Zoomlion’s collaboration with the Traditional Council, according to the Communications Director, aims to foster a cleaner environment, enhancing the health and quality of life for the people of Accra.

As a token of goodwill to Ga Mantse towards the Homowo Festival, Zoomlion donated items including crates of various beverages and bottled water, and an undisclosed amount of money to support the festivities.

The Ga Traditional Council appreciated Zoomlion’s gesture, and commended the company for the immense contribution towards improving people’s health and wellbeing through environmental cleanliness and waste processing.