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The Environmental Service Providers Association (ESPA) has called on its members to suspend a planned nationwide strike, originally scheduled to begin today, following renewed engagements with the government over outstanding payments owed to waste management companies. According to the association, the Minister of Local Government and Religious Affairs, Ibrahim Ahmed, has reached out to ESPA’s leadership for urgent dialogue to address the arrears and to explore sustainable policy and funding solutions for the sector. In a statement issued in Accra and signed by Executive Secretary, Ama Ofori Antwi, ESPA said the minister had assured that the government was committed to processing and settling the arrears “within the shortest possible time.” “In light of these positive engagements, the association urges all member companies to continue normal operations despite the challenges, as leadership works closely with government to reach a firm and mutually beneficial resolution of the impasse,” the statement said. ESPA commended its members for their patience and continued delivery of essential sanitation services under difficult circumstances, expressing confidence that ongoing talks would yield lasting solutions to stabilise the sector and protect jobs and the environment. The association further appealed to members to remain calm, united, and avoid any action that could disrupt waste collection and sanitation services while negotiations continue.
