In brief
The Buz Stop Boys movement, founded by Heneba Kwadwo Sarfo, is rallying support to combat Ghana's waste crisis, drawing admiration from locals and international volunteers alike.
In Ghana, a spirited group known as the Buz Stop Boys is sweeping the nation towards a cleaner future. Established by civil engineer Heneba Kwadwo Sarfo in July 2023, this movement has attracted the attention of local celebrities and volunteers from abroad, all eager to take part in addressing the pressing issue of waste management in the country. With approximately 12,700 tonnes of waste generated daily in Ghana and only about 10% disposed of correctly, the Buz Stop Boys aim to not only clean their surroundings but also instill a collective sense of responsibility. "Our mission is to alter perceptions about cleanliness and its benefits," Sarfo explained in a recent interview. "A cleaner Ghana starts with us all."The group, which began with five members, has grown to over 40 volunteers from various backgrounds, including midwives, carpenters, and military personnel. Cleansing the Greater Accra region, they conduct clean-up operations two to four times a week to alleviate the filth that hinders urban areas and encourages flooding.Their efforts have garnered praise from notable figures, including Sister Derby, a popular musician and human rights activist. She shared her admiration on social media, highlighting the selflessness of the group. Meanwhile, dancehall artist Shatta Wale has also voiced his support, noting the significant impact of their work and raising funds during a TikTok event.UK teenagers inspired by the initiative visited Ghana over their summer break to assist in clean-up operations, showcasing the initiative’s reach beyond local boundaries. Sarfo reflected on the importance of such visits in encouraging wider participation among locals.Fundraising efforts led to generous donations, including 50,000 cedis from former President John Mahama and 10,000 cedis from Transport Minister Asensu Boakye. These contributions help support the group’s logistics, such as waste disposal costs and transportation of rubbish.For Sarfo and the Buz Stop Boys, community engagement is crucial, as they advocate for individuals to take environmental action rather than waiting for government intervention. "We cannot allow ourselves to remain passive. It's imperative for citizens to be proactive," he asserted.The Buz Stop Boys symbolize a grassroots movement dedicated to transforming Ghana's environmental landscape, highlighting the power of collective action and the importance of civic engagement for a healthier and more inviting Ghana.
