Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to reducing methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas, with the Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, Dr. Freda Prempeh, highlighting President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo's visionary leadership in this endeavor.
Dr. Prempeh, also the Member of Parliament for Tano North in the Ahafo Region, announced the authorization of internally transferred mitigation outcomes for integrated waste recycling and composite facilities at the 28th session of the Conference of Parties (COP28) in Dubai.
“This commitment is not mere rhetoric; it is exemplified by the bold and visionary steps taken by our President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo,” Dr. Prempeh stated.
The authorization process involves regulatory compliance checks, documentation review, and approval from relevant authorities, ensuring adherence to waste management regulations.
The nation recognized the crucial role of keeping organic waste out of landfills in its pursuit of sustainable waste management practices.
“It is with great pride that I highlight the incorporation of this priority area into Ghana's updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), reflecting our commitment to mitigating climate change,” the statement from the Ministry said.
President Akufo-Addo's dynamic leadership has led to a transformative journey through Public-Private Partnerships, resulting in the initiation of a large-scale installation of 16 integrated waste recycling and compost plants strategically located across all regions of the nation.
On completion, these facilities are expected to divert about 35 percent of the total volumes of waste generated from reaching landfill sites, playing a crucial role in reducing methane emissions from waste.
“These projects yield significant co-benefits for our nation; job creation, spurred by the expansion of these facilities, is a tangible result, fostering economic growth and sustainability,” the statement noted.
The strategic alignment of waste management initiatives with climate investments has attracted foreign direct investments, reinforcing Ghana's prominence as an attractive destination for sustainable development. The collaborative efforts extend beyond national boundaries, particularly with the Government of Switzerland.
The Ministry announced the signing of the Letter of Authorization for four integrated waste recycling and compost facilities installed by the Jospong Group, commending President Akufo-Addo for creating an enabling environment for the private sector and urging the Jospong Group to meet expectations.