Ghana loses over GH¢6.2 billion annually due to poor sanitation - ISSER

The Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER) has revealed that Ghana loses more than GH¢6.2 billion annually due to diseases and health complications linked to poor waste management and sanitation.

According to a recent study by the University of Ghana-based research institute, poor sanitation continues to impose a significant economic burden on the country through rising healthcare costs, reduced productivity, absenteeism from work and school, and preventable deaths.

“Ghana loses more than GH¢6.2 billion annually due to diseases and health complications linked to poor waste management and sanitation,” the report stated.

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The study noted that the impact of poor waste management extends beyond environmental concerns such as choked gutters, overflowing refuse containers and flooding, affecting economic growth and national productivity.

ISSER explained that the billions of cedis lost each year could have been invested in key sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure and job creation.

The report also highlighted the strong economic benefits associated with investing in waste management.

“Every GH¢1 invested currently generates approximately GH¢180 in economic returns,” the researchers noted.

The study added that returns could increase significantly if Ghana raises investment levels to match international lower-middle-income standards.

“If investment levels were increased to match international lower-middle-income standards, returns could rise to GH¢556 for every GH¢1 invested,” the report said.

ISSER argued that waste management should be viewed as a strategic economic investment rather than merely a sanitation challenge, citing its potential to improve public health, create jobs and drive economic growth.

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The researchers further warned that Ghana could miss out on opportunities in the rapidly expanding global waste management industry if policymakers fail to prioritise long-term investments in recycling, waste treatment and waste-to-energy projects.

“The evidence is clear: investment in waste management is not an expense, it is an economic growth strategy,” the report emphasised.

ISSER therefore called for increased public and private sector investment, stronger sanitation enforcement and a coordinated national strategy to address the country's waste management challenges.

ANAS/EB

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