Zoomlion Ghana Limited has clarified its long-standing partnership with the Youth Employment Authority (YEA), addressing allegations of worker exploitation under the Youth in Sanitation Module.
This follows public criticism by investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni, who urged YEA to terminate the agreement, alleging unfair treatment of beneficiaries.
In a statement dated May 1, 2025, Zoomlion explained that the contract, signed in 2006 with the then Ministry of Youth and Sports, mandates the company to manage and supervise sanitation workers, while YEA and district assemblies handle recruitment.
Key Contract Terms:
Each beneficiary is allocated GH¢850 monthly.
GH¢258 is paid as an allowance.
GH¢592 covers management fees, logistics, PPE, and supervision.
Zoomlion is required to pre-finance payments to workers and is reimbursed quarterly by the government.
The company claims it has not been reimbursed for over a year and is requesting interest payments to cover financial losses due to these delays.
Zoomlion emphasized it consistently advocates for increased allowances for beneficiaries and has submitted regular reports to YEA since 2008.
Operational Achievements:
Management of thousands of sanitation workers nationwide.
Establishment of 36 waste treatment facilities.
Creation of over 200,000 jobs across the waste management value chain.
Despite financial constraints, the company says it remains committed to environmental sanitation and national development.