The problems and potentials of privatising solid waste management

In an effort to improve the poor record of the city's solid waste services, Kumasi authorities wish to transfer operations to private producers. This shift will create a completely new set of roles and responsibilities for the various actors involved in solid waste management. Unfortunately, Ghana's history of state-led development has not produced a very receptive environment to this endeavour. While the private sector suffers from underdevelopment in general and inexperience in delivering services in particular, the local government is still insufficiently equipped to adequately manage the process. Kumasi's residents are willing to contribute financially to a privatised system but insist on receiving value-for-money. This paper argues in favour of a business-like approach to the problem, while admitting that continued financial support on the part of the authorities as well as community support remain indispensable. Measures are being proposed to foster micro-enterprise involvement in waste collection, to promote the use of alternative technologies and to investigate potentials for recycling and reuse of waste.