The Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly (STMA) faces difficulties in providing adequate sanitation services. Officials stated that funding limitations impede their work. This came up during a visit from the Parliamentary Select Committee on Sanitation and Water Resources. The committee is assessing sanitation delivery across Ghana.
Metropolitan Chief Executive Frederick Faustinus Faidoo explained a key problem. Guidelines restrict assemblies to spending only 10 percent of their Common Fund on waste management. This small percentage strains efforts to keep the city clean. Mr. Faidoo noted he inherited a metropolis with few communal waste containers. The assembly currently manages a landfill site for waste disposal.
These funding issues are part of a larger challenge for MMDAs in Ghana. Many local governments struggle with insufficient budgets for essential services. The reliance on limited funds affects their capacity to partner with private waste management companies effectively. Previous arrangements with Zoomlion Ghana Limited were scaled back due to these financial constraints. STMA now employs only 20 personnel for daily sweeping.
John Oti Bless, Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee, spoke about the visit's purpose. He said the committee wants to understand operational challenges. They gather information directly from assemblies. This is part of a nationwide effort to improve waste management results. The committee plans further discussions with assemblies to find policy solutions.
Edwin Bonsu, STMA’s Director of Waste Management, echoed concerns about funding. He stated that the assembly cannot operate fully without a dedicated funding source. They have procured 10 tricycles for cleaning, but their sustainability is uncertain. Mr. Bonsu stressed the need for consistent financial support.
The Metropolitan Environmental Health Officer, Daniel Lamptey, discussed disinfection services. The contract with Zoomlion for fumigating public spaces cost GH¢84,000 per quarter. This later rose to GH¢104,000. However, a government directive in 2026 suspended this fumigation contract. The assembly is now seeking the Parliament’s help to establish sanitation courts.
These courts would enforce sanitation by-laws more effectively. This aims to promote better compliance among residents throughout the metropolis. The committee’s engagements aim to identify practical solutions for Ghana’s sanitation problems.