The Gambia Partners with Jospong Group: A Transformative Approach to Waste Management Solutions

The Jospong Group of Companies (JGC) has partnered with The Gambia by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to introduce tailored waste management solutions in the country. This partnership aims to address waste challenges in Africa with African solutions.

The signing took place in Accra on March 3, 2025, led by Honourable Rohey John Manjang, The Gambia’s Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources, and Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong, Executive Chairman of JGC.

Madam Manjang emphasized the need for Africa to develop its own solutions and expressed a commitment to building a waste treatment plant in The Gambia within six months through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP). “We need innovative ways to tackle our challenges,” she stated.

A Gambian delegation, including government officials and members of their National Assembly, recently visited JGC’s waste management facilities in Ghana to learn from their practices.

During the signing ceremony, Madam Manjang highlighted the importance of collaboration between the government and the private sector. “We cannot achieve our goals alone,” she said, setting a six-month target for the implementation of the waste management unit.

She praised JGC’s innovative approaches, indicating that the solutions observed during their visit showcased what could be achieved within Africa. “We are capable of creating effective solutions without relying on external help,” she added.

Dr. Siaw Agyepong shared his belief that Africa’s growth relies on local ideas and strategies rather than foreign aid. He looked toward examples from countries like Rwanda, which have shown significant progress through determination and innovation. “What we need is the will to change,” he said.

He also noted that the MoU marks the start of a practical plan for comprehensive waste management in The Gambia. Together, both leaders expressed confidence that their collaboration would lead to a successful project in The Gambia.

Before the MoU was signed, the Gambian delegation met with Ghana’s Minister of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Honourable Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed. They toured JGC’s facilities in Accra and Kumasi, learning about the company’s successful waste management practices.

Hon. Muhammed stressed the importance of protecting Ghanaian investors in The Gambia, pointing to the historical bond between the two nations. He encouraged JGC to operate responsibly in The Gambia, emphasizing that their success reflects on Ghana’s image as well.

Hon. Manjang acknowledged the similarities between the two countries, suggesting that Ghana’s expertise in addressing environmental challenges is essential for The Gambia. She pointed out that as the population grows, so do environmental problems, making effective waste management practices crucial for sustainability.

The Gambian delegation’s visit included stops at key JGC installations, such as the Accra Composting and Recycling Plant and the Plastic Recycling Plant. The hope is that their collaborative efforts will foster a greener future for The Gambia and contribute to solving waste management issues across the region.

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