The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has begun installing new public waste bins in the Central Business District (CBD) as part of efforts to improve sanitation and encourage proper waste disposal.

The move follows a donation of bins by Duraplast on Tuesday, March 17, to support the Assembly’s drive to strengthen waste management across the city.

A total of 20 bins have been placed along the busy Kinbu to CMB stretch, an area known for heavy human and vehicular traffic and high levels of waste generation.

Speaking during the exercise, the Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, said the bins were strategically positioned to serve traders, pedestrians and roadside operators who produce waste in their daily activities.

He assured that the Assembly would ensure regular collection, with sanitation workers and trucks deployed daily to empty the bins and keep the area clean.

The Mayor, however, cautioned that the bins are not meant for household waste. He warned residents against transporting refuse from their homes to the dump in the public bins.

Anyone found doing so, he said, would be arrested and prosecuted in line with the law.

He urged the public to support the initiative by using the bins responsibly, stressing that keeping the city clean requires a shared effort.

The Mayor also called on corporate organisations to support the initiative and partner with the Assembly to improve sanitation.

Earlier, at the presentation of the bins, Executive Director of Duraplast, Ms Mireille Hitti, said the donation forms part of the company’s commitment to national development and environmental sustainability.

She noted that as a Ghanaian company, Duraplast sees its role as going beyond manufacturing to supporting efforts that promote a cleaner and healthier environment.

Ms Hitti described sanitation as a major challenge in Accra, adding that proper waste disposal is essential for public health, environmental protection and civic pride.

She expressed confidence that providing waste bins would help encourage responsible behaviour among residents and businesses.

She also called for stronger collaboration among residents, businesses and other stakeholders, urging all to take responsibility for their environment and support the AMA’s efforts.

Ms Hitti further commended the leadership of the AMA for its commitment to improving sanitation and reaffirmed Duraplast’s readiness to support similar initiatives in the future.