The Environmental Service Providers Association (ESPA) has rejected what it describes as empty assurances from government officials over the payment of long-standing arrears owed to its members.

The association has warned of a nationwide shutdown of waste collection services if the debt remains unpaid by November 7, 2025.

A member of the association, Julius Sekyere, speaking on JoyFM’s Midday News on Thursday (October 30), disclosed that the government owes ESPA approximately ₵1 million, an amount that has remained outstanding despite several appeals and follow-ups.

He noted that despite engaging the Ministry of Local Government and the Parliamentary Select Committee on Waste Management, the government has yet to provide a concrete payment timeline.

“Government always continues to promise payment, and the payment doesn’t come. We’ve written letters, even copies from last year, but up to today, nothing has been done.

“It has all been assurances. But the fact is, banks are chasing us for their money, and some of our members are already in court for default payments. We don’t want assurances anymore. Assurances don’t pay bank loans,” he stated.

According to him, the association had initially planned to cease operations on October 31, but following discussions with landfill operators, the deadline was extended to November 7 — the final date by which ESPA expects payment.

Mr. Sekyere cautioned that the failure to settle the debt could lead to a major sanitation crisis, as heaps of refuse would remain uncollected in major towns and cities.

“Even now, they accuse us of not performing well. But if we fold up, you can imagine what will happen — cholera, infections, malaria. No rubbish will be picked, even at the Central Market,” he said.