The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and Acting Minister for Environment, Science and Technology Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah has underscored the urgent need for Ghana to replicate e-waste management centres across all regions and, ultimately, every district of the country.
Speaking during a visit to an e-waste facility, the Minister said the rapid spread of computers and electronic devices, even in rural communities, makes proper disposal of electronic waste a national priority. He warned that without structured disposal systems, electronic waste would continue to be dumped indiscriminately, with serious environmental consequences, including marine pollution.
He described the work being done at the e-waste centre as critical to Ghana’s environmental sustainability efforts and stressed the need for sustained government support to expand capacity. According to him, while donor and institutional support has been helpful, the long-term responsibility must rest with Ghanaians to deliberately build local capacity.
The Minister explained that the vision goes beyond environmental protection to include job creation and skills development. He said district assemblies must be empowered to train people in safe e-waste handling and recycling as part of a broader strategy to decentralise waste management.
He emphasized that e-waste management should not be treated as a short-term intervention but as a long-term national investment, adding that government would continue to prioritise initiatives that protect the environment while creating economic opportunities.
Dr. Vincent Kyere, Team Leader for the Ministry of Environment’s E-Waste Project, highlighted the project’s impact on youth employment and skills development. According to him, the initiative has created jobs and provided vocational training for young people, equipping them with practical skills in environmental management and recycling.
Dr. Kyere further disclosed that large volumes of waste plastics, particularly from Agbogbloshie and surrounding areas, are collected and transported to the facility for recycling. He said the process not only reduces plastic pollution but also promotes environmental responsibility, while offering participants hands-on experience that can lead to long-term employment opportunities.
The tour forms part of government efforts to integrate environmental sustainability with industrial development and job creation.
Story By: Sheila Otuo- Baffour