Residents of Adipa/Asiaw Electoral Area in Ghana's Eastern Region have issued a 7-day ultimatum to the government to stop transferring tonnes of waste from Agbogbloshie to the Adipa engineered landfill site. They demand engagement with the community over concerns surrounding the facility. The residents threaten to block roads leading to the dumpsite if their concerns are not addressed. The ultimatum follows the evacuation of waste from Agbogbloshie, commissioned by President John Dramani Mahama on September 18, 2026.
The residents claim they were not consulted before the waste transfer and are already experiencing the effects, including heaps of garbage and offensive odours. They fear groundwater contamination, particularly during rainfall. Assembly Member Emmanuel Asamoah demands an independent environmental and health impact assessment of the landfill site, followed by a comprehensive cleanup and decontamination of affected areas. The cost should be borne by the responsible authorities.
The residents also demand permanent security barriers to prevent illegal dumping and ensure the facility is not used for unauthorised waste disposal. They call for a public forum within seven days to present a transparent and sustainable long-term waste management plan. The residents stress that their position is not against a fair waste management system but against being treated as a dumping ground for problems the capital does not want to face.
Failure to respond within the 7-day period will lead to further action, including blocking roads to the dumping site. Member of Parliament Frank Annoh-Dompreh backs the concerns of his constituents, questioning the decision to transport waste without adequate stakeholder consultation. He raises concerns about the community's right to a clean and healthy environment and whether the arrangement aligns with the Sustainable Development Goal on waste management.
The residents and their representatives call for urgent engagement between government, municipal authorities, the landfill operator, and affected communities to address concerns before the ultimatum expires. The development has raised concerns about the community's well-being and the need for responsible waste management. The 7-day ultimatum started on September 28, 2026.
President John Dramani Mahama commissioned the waste evacuation exercise on September 18, 2026, as part of efforts to address the accumulation of waste at Agbogbloshie. However, the residents argue that their concerns have not been adequately addressed. The Adipa engineered landfill site has become a contentious issue, with residents demanding a more comprehensive approach to waste management.
The situation in Adipa/Asiaw Electoral Area highlights the challenges of waste management in Ghana and the need for effective stakeholder engagement. The government's response to the ultimatum will be crucial in determining the next steps. The residents, government, and relevant authorities must work together to find a solution that prioritises the health and well-being of the community.
Key points
- Adipa residents give government 7-day ultimatum over Agbogbloshie waste transfer.
- Residents demand independent environmental and health impact assessment of landfill site.
- Government and stakeholders must engage with the community to address concerns.
