The Management of Zoomlion Ghana Limited has responded to concerns raised by some operatives under the Sanitation Module of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), particularly regarding the payment of allowances.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Zoomlion clarified its role in the programme and addressed the key issues brought forward by the operatives.

The Sanitation Module, managed by Zoomlion in partnership with the Government of Ghana, involves the provision of logistics and tools such as uniforms and brooms to workers, while the payment of allowances is handled solely by the government through the YEA.

According to Zoomlion, it is the government that determines the amount and timing of the allowances, which are then disbursed to the company for onward payment to the operatives.

In addressing the concerns, Zoomlion emphasised that the company does not control the payment process but has, on several occasions, secured loans to pre-finance allowances as a humanitarian gesture when delays in government disbursements occurred.

Zoomlion also clarified that YEA operatives work four hours a day and are not required to work on Sundays. Whenever workers are asked to extend their hours beyond the agreed time, they are compensated with additional allowances, and sometimes provided with meals.

The company further highlighted its commitment to the welfare of the workers, stating that although it is not contractually obligated to compensate operatives for death or injury, it has, on humanitarian grounds, provided financial assistance for medical treatment in such instances.

Zoomlion also mentioned its tradition of gifting rice and oil to operatives at the end of each year as a token of appreciation.

For nearly 18 years, Zoomlion has been a key partner of YEA, consistently ensuring timely payments to workers and contributing to their professional development through training programmes.

Some YEA operatives have advanced to become certified truck drivers, thanks to these initiatives.

In 2024, Zoomlion sponsored YEA workers on a global learning tour to Belarus and Russia to enhance their waste management knowledge.

This, the company said, is part of its broader goal to invest in the capacity building of workers.

On the issue of delayed payments, Zoomlion reiterated that the delays are due to the government's failure to release funds on time and are beyond its control.

Despite this, the company remains committed to ensuring timely payments once funds are available and called for constructive dialogue to address any grievances rather than actions that could tarnish the company's reputation.

Zoomlion assured the public of its unwavering dedication to promoting sustainable waste management across the country.

The company also announced plans to modernise Ghana’s waste management system by establishing recycling plants, wastewater treatment facilities, and medical waste treatment plants across all 16 regions.

The statement concluded with Zoomlion urging the media to be cautious in their reportage, emphasising the company’s commitment to ethical practices and environmental sustainability.