Prestea Huni-Valley Assembly Needs GHS 2 Million Skip Truck

The Prestea Huni-Valley Municipal Assembly urgently needs a new skip truck. The current vital vehicle for collecting waste has broken down completely. This breakdown is severely disrupting the assembly’s waste management operations. The estimated cost for a new skip truck is approximately GHS 2 million. This appeal was made during a visit by Parliament’s Select Committee on Sanitation and Water Resources. The committee is conducting a nationwide review of how services are delivered.

Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) Dr Matthew Kofi Ayer stated the truck is the "engine of waste haulage." Its absence means the assembly must hire private 'aboboyaa' operators. These operators transport waste using motorbikes and small carts. This reliance on private services creates a significant financial strain on the local authority. Dr Ayer stressed this is not a sustainable solution for the municipality.

Ghana faces ongoing challenges in waste management and sanitation. These issues affect public health and the environment. Many Municipal and District Assemblies struggle with aging equipment and limited budgets. The District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) provides some funding. However, the Municipal Environmental Health Officer, Jerry Kuma, noted that the 10 percent allocation for sanitation is insufficient. This is especially true given the growing population and waste generation.

Dr Ayer also mentioned progress in water supply. His office reported the construction of 27 new boreholes. These new boreholes aim to increase access to clean drinking water for residents. The Member of Parliament for Salaga North, Zuwera Mohammed Ibrahimah, explained the committee's role. Their visits assess challenges and gather input for policy improvements. Chairman of the Committee, John Oti Bless, reaffirmed the government's commitment to sanitation. He also raised questions about deductions for fumigation contracts.

The committee plans a public accountability session. This session will be broadcast live. Municipal and District Assemblies will report on their spending for sanitation and water. This aims to boost transparency and efficient use of public money. The Prestea Huni-Valley Assembly’s request highlights a common problem. Many local governments need better equipment to serve their citizens effectively. The success of these reviews will depend on concrete actions and funding allocations.