Kumasi is grappling with a looming waste management crisis as the Oti Landfill Site faces a possible shutdown within the next three months due to severe funding challenges and operational strain.
The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) says the facility, which serves not only Kumasi but several surrounding districts, is under immense pressure from the growing volume of waste it receives daily.
Mayor Richard Ofori-Agyemang Boadi, addressing a press conference, indicated that the landfill now handles more than 2,000 tonnes of waste each day, far exceeding its sustainable capacity. He attributed the situation to the increasing dependence of neighbouring assemblies, including Atwima Nwabiagya, Ejisu, and Kwabre East, on the facility.
According to the Mayor, the financial burden of managing waste from multiple jurisdictions is compounded by inadequate funding, particularly from the District Assemblies Common Fund, which he described as insufficient to meet operational demands.
He warned that without urgent financial intervention and infrastructure expansion, the landfill may be forced to shut down, posing serious environmental and public health risks to the metropolis.
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To address the challenge, the Assembly is considering the construction of additional landfill cells to expand capacity and prolong the facility’s lifespan. The proposed project is estimated to cost about six million euros.
Mr. Boadi also revealed that delays in government payments over the past four years have further hindered effective management of the site.
He, however, assured that steps are being taken to engage the relevant authorities to secure the necessary funding and avert a shutdown.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh/Isaac Justice Bediako
