In a bid to address Ghana’s escalating sanitation challenges, the government has proposed the introduction of a dedicated sanitation levy. This move aims to boost funding for waste management initiatives, enhance public hygiene, and support long-term sanitation projects.
According to Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Sanitation, Ahmed Ibrahim, the levy is crucial for establishing a sanitation fund.
“I have just assumed responsibility and sanitation has just been brought under us. Establishment of a sanitation fund will call for a sanitation levy. Because when you are creating a fund, it means that you are instituting a tax,” he explained.
Ibrahim emphasized that the levy is long overdue, stressing that it will be a key step towards tackling Ghana’s sanitation woes.
“It has to be taken from somewhere to come and establish the fund. And it is long overdue. So it is something when Parliament reconvenes after this adjournment, as a Ministry, we will visit it and it will be done,” he added.
Ghana’s sanitation crisis is characterized by inadequate waste management, poor drainage systems, and insufficient funding. The proposed levy is expected to provide a dedicated source of funding for sanitation initiatives, reducing the country’s reliance on donor support.
The government’s move to introduce the sanitation levy has been welcomed by stakeholders, who believe it will help address the country’s sanitation challenges. With the proposed levy, Ghana is taking a bold step towards improving its sanitation landscape and promoting a healthier environment for its citizens.