By sheer dint of necessity, the urban poor in Ghana have invented an endless series of survival
strategies to endure the high rate of unemployment and widespread poverty by engaging in
occupations such as waste scavenging. Whilst literature is replete with evidence of the
economic significance of this livelihood activity, there is scanty empirical work on its health
implications. This study examines the health implications associated with the occupation, using
scavengers in Kumasi as a case study. The research is based on data collected through 10 key
informant interviews with stakeholders in waste management and 30 personal interviews with
waste scavengers drawn equally from the three largest solid waste dumpsites in the metropolis.
The study reveals how scavengers are exposed daily to a myriad life threatening health
problems as they sift for recyclable products. The paper concedes that given the economic
implication of the enterprise, it is important that they benefit from intervention programs that
can reduce the adverse health outcomes associated with their job.