Ghana (GH)

Ghana is one of West Africa's most attractive expat bases: English-speaking, politically stable, culturally warm and increasingly connected to the global African diaspora.

Capital: Accra

Region: Africa

Language: English

Currency: GHS (GHc)

Cost of living: Very affordable (index 31)

Emergency: 112

Recycling & Waste in Ghana

Bin system, bottle deposits, special disposal, and common mistakes.

Waste management in Ghana is led by Zoomlion Ghana Limited, operating nationwide through district assemblies. Ghana was recognised by the UN as the West Africa Waste Management Hub in 2025. The Accra Compost and Recycling Plant (ACARP) processes up to 1,200 tonnes/day of municipal solid waste. However, only around 9.5% of plastic waste is collected for recycling nationally. There is no formal kerbside recycling or bottle deposit scheme for households. Informal collectors and waste pickers play a significant role in recovering recyclable materials. For most residents, the practical reality is a single general waste collection with recycling dependent on private initiatives and estate-level programmes.

The Bin System

General waste

Varies

Borla

Accepts

✓mixed household waste
✓food waste
✓packaging

Not accepted

✗hazardous chemicals
✗large e-waste where separate collection exists

Plastic bottles/recyclables

Varies/private bags

Recyclables

Accepts

✓clean plastic bottles
✓some cans
✓selected paper/cardboard

Not accepted

✗dirty food packaging
✗mixed wet waste

Organic/compost

Varies

Compost where available

Accepts

✓food scraps
✓garden waste

Not accepted

✗plastic bags
✗meat in simple home compost

Special Disposal

E-waste

Private recyclers, repair markets or municipal initiatives

Do not dump batteries/electronics with household waste if alternatives exist.

Medical waste/sharps

Clinic/hospital or pharmacy advice

Keep sharps in hard container and ask medical provider.

Bulk waste

Private waste company or assembly-approved pickup

Agree price before removal.

Hazardous chemicals/paint

Supplier/assembly/private waste contractor

Avoid drains and open burning.

Bulk Waste

Coordinate with landlord, estate manager or private collector.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

! Burning waste in residential compound
! Letting drains clog before rainy season
! Leaving food waste unsealed
! Assuming recycling collection is automatic

Fines & Enforcement

Local assemblies can sanction illegal dumping, but enforcement varies.

Practical Tips

→ Choose housing with reliable waste collection
→ Keep bins covered
→ Clear gutters before rains
→ Ask estate for recycling contacts