Public-Private Partnership Dispute Highlights Need for Transparent Municipal Governance

A dispute between a private sanitation company and local government officials in Accra underscores the critical importance of transparent governance in Ghana's growing public-private partnership sector. The case involving Prince Setraco Ghana Limited and Ayawaso Central Municipal authorities reveals both opportunities and challenges in Ghana's infrastructure development landscape.

The Business Case at Stake

Prince Setraco Ghana Limited, a construction and sanitation management company, secured a 15-year lease agreement with the Ayawaso Central Municipal Assembly in May 2023. The arrangement represented a promising model for infrastructure development, with the company investing in renovating a 20-seater modern toilet facility in Kotobabi while sharing revenue with the Assembly.

According to company records, the facility generated GHC 10,080 in unpaid revenue to the Assembly over six months, demonstrating the economic potential of well-managed public-private partnerships in Ghana's sanitation sector.

Governance and Transparency Concerns

The situation escalated in September 2025 when Assemblyman Tommy Thompson allegedly took control of the facility with local personnel. Police investigations, led by Inspector John Atitso of Nima Police Station, reportedly confirmed unauthorized revenue collection activities.

The company has now petitioned President John Dramani Mahama's office, seeking intervention to restore proper governance and protect legitimate business interests. This action reflects the importance of presidential leadership in ensuring transparent municipal operations.

Economic Impact and Innovation Opportunities

With the company facing a GHC 180,000 outstanding bank loan, the dispute highlights how governance challenges can undermine private sector investment in critical infrastructure. The case has proceeded to the District Magistrate Court in Accra, where Prince Setraco seeks daily compensation of GHC 2,000 for lost revenue.

This situation presents an opportunity for Ghana to strengthen its regulatory frameworks and demonstrate its commitment to business-friendly policies that attract both local and international investment in infrastructure development.

Building Investor Confidence

For Ghana's diaspora and international business community, this case serves as a crucial test of the country's commitment to transparent governance and rule of law. Successful resolution could reinforce Ghana's position as a stable investment destination in West Africa's growing economy.

The outcome will likely influence future public-private partnerships in Ghana's infrastructure sector, particularly in sanitation and urban development projects that are essential for the country's continued economic growth and modernization.