The company said the introduction of the tax, a collaboration between government and the private sector to recycle the country’s waste, was taking shape.

Through the collaboration, 16 Integrated Recycling and Compost Plants (IRECOPs) are being constructed across the country, with 10 due for operation by the end of year.

The tax handle, 10 pesewas per a litre of petroleum product, amidst opposition, was introduced in 2021 to aid in the management of both liquid and solid waste in the country.

Speaking with journalists after a tour to inspect progress of work on some facilities in Kumasi on Friday, the Senior Communications Officer at Zoomlion, Adams Mohammed Mahama, said the levy has been helpful.

“It has helped us in doing what you have seen on this trip. The plants you have seen are world standard plants. We couldn’t have installed these plants without the support of the levy and government in general,” Mr Mahama said.

Urging government to not relent in its support to the sector, Mr Mahama pleaded that funds for the execution of projects should be released on time.
“In as much as we appreciate government’s support, we call on it to release the funds promptly. We know that times are hard and we understand if there are some delays, but if the funds are released on time, it will help us do more.”

According to Mr Mahama, Zoomlion and government’s partnership does not only focus on waste management in the country’s big cities, but a comprehensive national project to keep the country clean.

Zoomlion’s commitment to a clean Ghana and job creation in the waste management value chain, Mr Mahama said, remains undiluted as he urged Ghanaians to support local businesses.

The tour took the team to IRECOP sites at Ho, Dambai, Tamale, Damango, Sunyani, Gaoso and Kumasi.

The Ho, Tamale and Sunyani facilities are about 90 per cent complete, whereas Dambai, Damango and Goaso plants have been completed and were ready to start operation.

The second line of the Kumasi Compost and Recycling Plant, the biggest of such facility in the West African sub-region, has been installed and would also be in full operation by end of year.