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EPA announces ban on styrofoam products Effective January 2027
The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has announced that the production, importation, sale, distribution, and use of polystyrene foam products, popularly known as Styrofoam or takeaway packs, will be banned in Ghana effective January 1, 2027.
The announcement was made in a statement issued by the Authority on May 25, 2026.
According to the EPA, the directive follows a policy announcement made by President John Dramani Mahama during the 2025 World Environment Day celebration on June 5, where he declared government’s intention to ban Styrofoam products as part of efforts to fight plastic pollution and protect the environment.
The Authority said the ban will apply to all forms of expanded polystyrene foam products used for commercial and human activities.
These include food packaging containers, disposable cups and plates, takeaway packs used by restaurants and chop bars, foam mattresses, ceiling and insulation materials, as well as packaging and cushioning materials.
However, the EPA noted that polystyrene products intended for medical, scientific, laboratory, and diagnostic purposes will be exempted, subject to regulation.
The Authority explained that the policy forms part of national efforts to improve environmental sanitation, protect public health, reduce plastic pollution, and promote sustainable development.
It therefore urged manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers, food vendors, hospitality operators, and other stakeholders to begin transitioning to safer and environmentally friendly alternatives before the directive takes effect.
The EPA said it will embark on nationwide public education and stakeholder engagements during the transition period leading to January 2027.
According to the Authority, it will also strengthen monitoring, inspections, and enforcement measures to ensure full compliance with the directive.
The EPA added that it will work closely with Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies, port authorities, customs officials, and industry regulators to enforce the ban across the country.
The Authority further called on the public to support the initiative by adopting sustainable consumption practices and using reusable and recyclable packaging materials.
“Protecting the environment is our collective responsibility,” the statement said.
By: Jacob Aggrey
Businessman and politician Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has announced a change in his legal representation in the ongoing criminal case against him.
In a statement issued by him, Wontumi said he has appointed former Member of Parliament and lawyer, Mr. Samuel Atta Akyea, as his new lead defence counsel.
He explained that the decision was taken after careful consultation and is in line with his constitutional right to choose his own lawyer.
According to him, the change is intended to ensure that his defence is properly and effectively presented before the court in accordance with the law.
Wontumi expressed appreciation to his previous legal team for their work on the case, stressing that the decision to replace them should not be seen as a reflection of their competence or dedication.
He noted that he remains committed to defending himself through due process and insisted that, like every accused person, he is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
He added that the prosecution carries the burden of proving the charges against him beyond reasonable doubt.
Wontumi further stated that his new lawyer will take steps to review the case file and handle all necessary applications and submissions to protect his right to a fair trial.
He called on the public and all parties involved to avoid speculation and allow the legal process to continue without interference.
He expressed confidence that the court process will be guided by the Constitution and the principles of justice and fairness.
By: Jacob Aggrey
The Minister of Government Communications, Felix Ofosu Kwakye, says President John Mahama’s decision to reduce the number of political appointees has saved the state millions of cedis in public spending.
Addressing journalists during the Government Accountability Series at the Jubilee House on Monday, June 15, 2026, Mr. Ofosu Kwakye said the current administration has reduced the number of political appointees from 355 under the previous government to 233.
According to him, the reduction has significantly lowered government expenditure on salaries, accommodation, official vehicles and other benefits provided to political appointees.
He explained that reports suggesting the current government is spending more on compensation despite having fewer appointees were inaccurate and failed to take into account salary adjustments approved for officials who served under the previous administration.
Mr. Ofosu Kwakye noted that the salaries and conditions of service currently being enjoyed by President Mahama’s appointees were determined by a committee established under the previous government and not by the current administration.
He said former appointees under the Akufo-Addo administration had received salary top-ups and other payments based on recommendations made by the committee, adding that these additional payments were not reflected in some of the comparisons being made.
“The reduction has saved money, running into millions,” he stated.
The minister further indicated that President Mahama has not purchased new vehicles for many of his appointees, with some officials using their personal vehicles for official duties.
According to him, this has further reduced government expenditure and contributed to efforts to ensure prudent management of public resources.
Mr. Ofosu Kwakye also criticised reports that suggested there was no financial benefit from reducing the number of appointees. He argued that such reports failed to seek clarification from government before publication and therefore did not present the full picture.
He maintained that when all costs associated with political appointments are considered, including salaries, accommodation, vehicles and other benefits, the current administration is spending less because it has fewer appointees.
Mr. Ofosu Kwakye reiterated that the government’s decision to maintain a lean presidency forms part of efforts to reduce public expenditure while ensuring efficient governance.
By: Jacob Aggrey
