Zoomlion Ghana has addressed public concerns regarding delays in salary payments to public sweepers, clarifying its role in the Waste and Sanitation Module implemented in partnership with the Government of Ghana through the Youth Employment Agency (YEA).
According to Zoomlion, the contract agreement stipulates that it is responsible for managing the operatives and providing the necessary logistics for their work, including uniforms, brooms, and other essential tools.
However, Zoomlion emphasized that the payment of allowances for YEA operatives is solely determined by the Government and YEA.
The Company stated that once the funds are released to it, it is responsible for distributing the payments to the beneficiaries.
As such, Zoomlion emphasized that while it manages the day-to-day activities of the operatives, it does not control or determine the amount or timing of their payments.
“Working Hours: YEA operatives work for four (4) hours per day and do not work on Sundays. In addition to their regular duties, whenever operatives are required to work outside their contracted hours, Zoomlion ensures they are compensated with an allowance, and in some cases, provided with lunch.
“Support for Workers: While it is not mandated by the contract for Zoomlion to offer compensation in cases of death or injury, the company has, on humanitarian grounds, extended support in such instances, including financial assistance for medical treatment. Additionally, operatives are appreciated at the end of each year with gifts of rice and oil, courtesy of Zoomlion”.
Zoomlion Ghana
Zoomlion Ghana pointed out that it has partnered with the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) for nearly two decades, demonstrating a strong commitment to the well-being of YEA workers.
Zoomlion stated that over the past 18 years, it has maintained an impeccable record of timely salary payments, ensuring financial stability for these workers.
The company asserted that its collaboration extends beyond employment, as Zoomlion invests in the professional development of YEA personnel through comprehensive training programs.
According to Zoomlion, many YEA workers have gained specialized skills, with numerous individuals advancing to become certified truck drivers.
Additionally, Zoomlion indicated that its dedication to global exposure was highlighted in June when YEA operatives were sponsored to visit Belarus and Russia to enhance their waste management knowledge and expertise.
Zoomlion Not Responsible For Delay
Zoomlion Ghana acknowledges concerns regarding delays in allowance payments in some regions but clarifies that it is not responsible for these delays, as the government has not yet disbursed the necessary funds.
Zoomlion stated that the company has, on several occasions, secured loans to pre-finance allowances as a humanitarian gesture, despite this not being part of its contractual obligations.
Accordingly, Zoomlion assured all YEA operatives and the public of its ongoing commitment to support the operatives within the agreed framework.
The company emphasized that it will continue to collaborate closely with the government to ensure timely payments once funds become available.
“We firmly believe that it is in the best interest of and fairness to all parties involved to engage in open and constructive dialogue rather than resorting to actions and pronouncements that may tarnish the image of the company. Over the years, Zoomlion has consistently delivered world-class waste management services to various MMDAs, resulting in a significant reduction in sanitation-related health issues across the country.
“We remain committed to upholding the highest standards of service delivery and compliance with all contractual obligations. We are open to continued collaboration and dialogue with the relevant authorities to address any concerns and ensure the continued provision of exceptional waste management services”.
Zoomlion Ghana
Zoomlion Ghana indicated that it is focused on establishing state-of-the-art waste recycling, wastewater treatment, and medical waste treatment plants across all sixteen regions of Ghana.
The company also revealed its intention to digitize waste collection payments with its “Change Your Borla Style” e-payment system for easier transactions.
According to Zoomlion, as a responsible corporate entity committed to ethical practices, it sees recent publications as attempts to tarnish its reputation.
As such, the management of Zoomlion reassured stakeholders that it has done nothing wrong and urged the media to report responsibly on matters concerning the company.
READ ALSO: GSE-CI Slips as MTN Ghana and NewGold ETF Close in the Red
