Gov’t to build waste transfer stations within 5km of communities – Ayariga

Minister for Local Government, Mahama Ayariga, has disclosed plans to construct transfer stations within a maximum distance of five kilometres from communities as part of efforts to improve waste management in major cities.

Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Thursday, September 10, he said the plan is aimed at reducing the distance waste collectors travel to dispose of refuse and curbing the practice of indiscriminate dumping.

He explained that Accra would be divided into zones, with strategically located transfer stations allowing waste collectors to offload refuse before larger trucks transport it to designated landfill sites.

“The policy is that what we are designing, no Aboboya should go beyond 5km to get a transfer station.”

Mr Ayariga said the government is also working to secure additional landfill sites for different parts of Accra to reduce pressure on a single facility.

He added that the proposal had been discussed with the Finance Minister, Cassiel Ato Forson who has asked the Ministry to complete the designs and submit the cost for consideration in the 2027 Budget.

The Minister further hinted at government considering large-capacity incinerators as part of efforts to improve waste treatment at landfill sites.

“So our plan is to make available in each home at least two waste bins. One is red, one is green. The red is organic waste, the green is solid waste. And if the Aboboyaa comes to your house and you have, you know, mixed the waste, he will report, and then there'll be a penalty” he added.

— CitiNewsRoom