Tricycle Operators’ Association of Ghana to Launch Nationwide Protest Over Dumpsite Closures

The Tricycle Operators’ Association of Ghana has announced plans to embark on a nationwide demonstration to express grievances over the lack of designated waste disposal sites across the country. This decision follows the recent abrupt closure of the Tambourine dumpsite located at McCarthy Hill in Weija, a move that has significantly disrupted waste management services provided by these operators. The association emphasizes that without access to proper disposal facilities, they are unable to carry out their essential role in maintaining urban sanitation. The Tambourine dumpsite was shuttered by National Security authorities approximately one week ago. According to official reports, the closure was necessitated by the severe traffic congestion caused by the high volume of tricycles frequenting the area. While authorities cited public order and traffic flow as the primary reasons for the shutdown, the Tricycle Operators’ Association maintains that the action was taken without providing an alternative site, effectively halting their operations and leaving them in a state of uncertainty. Tricycle operators play a critical role in Ghana's waste management ecosystem, particularly in navigating narrow streets and serving low-income communities where larger waste collection trucks cannot reach. The association argues that the current shortage of dumping sites is a systemic failure that penalizes informal workers who are providing a public service. They contend that the closure of the McCarthy Hill site is emblematic of a broader neglect of the infrastructure needed to support sustainable waste disposal for smaller-scale operators. As the association prepares for its nationwide protest, the situation highlights the urgent need for a collaborative approach between the government and waste management stakeholders. The planned demonstration aims to pressure the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development and other relevant bodies to designate permanent, accessible dumping sites for tricycles. Failure to resolve these infrastructure challenges could lead to a significant sanitation crisis if waste remains uncollected in communities across the country.