Solid waste management is a major challenge for many countries around the world, and Benin is no exception. With the recent announcement of the introduction of fees for household waste collection from January 2025, the issue of waste management is back at the center of concerns for residents of some Beninese cities.
The Waste and Sanitation Management Company (SGDS) had been providing the service free of charge since 2020, but it decided to end this free service and ask for a financial contribution from households to continue providing its services. This decision has sparked mixed reactions among the Beninese population, with some considering it normal while others express concerns about their ability to pay these new fees.
Gilles Amoussou, Director of SGDS, justified this new policy by emphasizing the importance of a contribution from households and waste producers. According to him, it is essential that citizens participate financially in waste management to ensure the sustainability of the service. The distribution of invoices will be done online, and payments must be made within the first 15 days of the month following the consumption of the services.
The modernization of waste management in Benin is a crucial issue to ensure a healthy environment and preserve the health of citizens. The SGDS, created in 2020 to replace the previous structures, wishes to offer a quality service to the Beninese, aware of the importance of meeting the expectations of the population in terms of sanitation.
Beyond the issue of fees, it is also essential to raise awareness among the population of the importance of sorting waste and reducing waste production. Responsible management of solid waste is essential to preserve the environment and ensure a healthy living environment for future generations.
In conclusion, the establishment of fees for household waste management in Benin marks a new step in the modernization of the garbage collection service. It is essential that the authorities and the population work together to ensure efficient and sustainable waste management, while respecting the environment and public health.