Zoomlion Ghana Limited has issued a public statement to clarify its role in a longstanding sanitation partnership with the Youth Employment Authority (YEA), following recent media reports and widespread social media discussions.
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.”