A community revolution: The Buz Stop Boys cleaning up Accra

In Ghana, a group of young volunteers, the "Buz Stop Boys", are fighting pollution with brooms and shovels, cleaning up the streets of Accra and inspiring a wave of civic responsibility across the country. Their story, amplified by social media, demonstrates how grassroots action can generate significant impact and contribute to a more sustainable future

It is an era of apathy and indifference, but, taking center stage in the streets of Accra, Ghana‘s bustling capital, is a wave of energy and commitment. At the forefront are young people wielding brooms and shovels backed with civic principles. Otherwise known as the Buz Stop Boys, they have adopted a more impassioned approach to reshaping the landscape of this city.

More than mere cleaning

Led by civil engineer Heneba Kwadwo Sarfo, the stated mission of the Buz Stop Boys is to rid Accra of its mounting waste and inspire a cultural shift in behavior. “Our goal is not just to clean the streets but to change mindsets,” Sarfo told the BBC. “If we can make people understand that keeping the environment clean benefits everyone, we’ll have a cleaner, healthier, and prouder Ghana.”

The movement, which had five founding members in July 2023, has grown through word of mouth and social media into a strong force of over 40 volunteers. A rich blend of midwives, carpenters, military officers, and students all share a common bond: love for the environment.

Its story has transcended borders and inspired young people across the world. A team of students from the United Kingdom, inspired by their commitment, spent their summer holidays in Accra taking part in the cleanups.

Individual action as a catalyst

The impact of the Buz Stop Boys goes far beyond cleaning rubbish. It’s a call to arms to people everywhere that small, local efforts can make all the difference across the globe. “Don’t sit at home saying you don’t care,” Sarfo stressed. “One thing is clear: without the environment, we are nothing. We can’t survive on this planet without it.”

Its commitment has impressed celebrities and politicians alike. Musician Sister Derby and dancehall star Shatta Wale have publicly heaped praises on the group and solicited funds to support their work. Former President John Mahama and Transport Minister Asensu Boakye have also contributed significant donations.

“These young people are the real heroes,” said Shatta Wale. “They’re doing what most of us are too busy or proud to do. If we all helped them, imagine how beautiful Accra could be“.

A global issue, a local solution

Ghana’s struggles to manage its waste carry a lesson or two for other developing nations facing rapid urbanization and population growth. According to an undated report by UNDP 2022, Ghana produces around 14,000 tons of solid waste daily, out of which only 10% is managed properly.

In its place, Ghana has embraced a multi-pronged approach, where regulatory frameworks and institutions would mean a national waste management strategy and public-private partnership to stimulate innovation in the sector.

• Regulatory frameworks and institutions: A national waste management strategy and public-private partnerships to encourage innovation in the sector.
• Sustainable financing: The government is developing an extended producer responsibility system, requiring local producers and importers to share the cost of waste disposal.
• Data and technology: Ghana is investing in digital platforms and innovation hubs to enhance knowledge-sharing and develop local solutions.
• Awareness campaigns: Education initiatives are changing community attitudes towards waste management and promoting responsible behaviors.

Innovative pioneer: Nelson Boateng

One of Ghana’s standout innovators in waste management is Nelson Boateng, a computer engineer-turned-entrepreneur. Boateng has devised a groundbreaking method to recycle plastic waste into building materials for affordable housing.

By working with waste collectors who gather around 22,000 tons of plastic daily, Boateng transforms these materials into bricks and paving blocks. His initiative not only tackles plastic waste but also provides sustainable housing solutions.