The Environmental Service Providers Association (ESPA) has called off its planned nationwide strike following assurances from the Government of Ghana to address long-standing arrears owed to waste management companies.

In a statement signed by Executive Secretary Ama Ofori Antwi, ESPA announced that the decision came after positive engagements with the Minister for Local Government and Religious Affairs, Mr Ibrahim Ahmed, who has initiated dialogue with the Association’s leadership to find a lasting solution to the sector’s payment and policy challenges.

According to the statement, the Minister assured ESPA that the government was committed to processing and settling all outstanding payments owed to waste service providers “within the shortest possible time.”

The meeting also paved the way for discussions on establishing more sustainable policy and funding mechanisms for Ghana’s waste management industry.

“In light of these positive engagements, we urge all member companies to suspend the planned nationwide strike originally scheduled to take effect on November 7, 2025,” the statement read.

The Association further encouraged its members to maintain regular operations despite ongoing financial difficulties, stressing that continued cooperation would help create a favourable environment for productive dialogue with the government.

ESPA also expressed appreciation to all sanitation service providers for their patience and commitment in delivering essential waste management services under challenging conditions.

“We remain confident that our continued dialogue with the government will yield the necessary outcomes to stabilise the sector and safeguard the livelihoods of thousands of workers and the environment,” the statement added.

The Association urged members to stay calm, united, and avoid any disruptions to waste collection activities while negotiations continue.

ESPA reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the interests of its members and ensuring that Ghana’s waste management infrastructure operates efficiently for the benefit of the public.