The government has officially announced the termination of the expired contract between the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) and Zoomlion Ghana Limited, with no plans for renewal.

The decision comes in response to a petition submitted on April 27, 2025, calling for a review of the long-standing arrangement.

In a statement issued by the Office of the President, His Excellency the President acknowledged the concerns raised in the petition by Manasseh Azuri Awini and outlined key directives aimed at reforming sanitation-related contracts and improving worker welfare. 

According to the statement, all payments made to Zoomlion after the contract's expiration will undergo a thorough audit.

The government further emphasised that no additional payments will be authorised unless verified, and any unauthorised disbursements will be recovered.

Cabinet has directed a complete overhaul of how sanitation contracts are awarded.

Moving forward, sanitation services will no longer be handled through a single national contract.

Instead, competitive tenders will be issued at the regional and district levels to encourage innovation and drive down costs.

"This change is aimed at promoting competition, enhancing service delivery, and opening up opportunities for more private sector players," the statement noted.

A Cabinet Subcommittee has been tasked with developing the modalities for implementing this new procurement model.

In a move to improve the livelihoods of sanitation workers, the government has indicated its intention to raise sweeper fees to a more "livable income" level.

This adjustment is expected to be financed in part by savings generated through the new competitive procurement process.

The statement also disclosed that ongoing fumigation contracts that have not met performance standards will be reviewed. Where necessary, such contracts will be terminated in line with their terms and upon the advice of the Attorney-General.