Clara Omuluzua Madubike | I-Witness News
The Anambra State Waste Management Agency (ASWAMA) in collaboration with Nigeria solution plastic activity have held an all-inclusive waste stakeholder’s meeting yesterday, 8th August, 2024 at Hilton leisure hotels Awka, Anambra state.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Environment, Engr. Dr Felix Odimegwu who represented Governor Soludo at the event applauded USAID, Coca cola foundation, Technoserve and Nigerian plastic solution activity for their unalloyed support, funding, collaboration and shared commitment towards addressing one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time which is plastic pollution. He noted that the initiative promises to make a significant impact on our environment and communities
He pointed out that the Governor Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo has been actively pursuing policies and projects aimed at reducing waste, promoting recycling and fostering a culture of sustainability. He noted that the introduction of the Nigeria plastic solutions activity in our state is a testament to our ongoing efforts and a significant step forward in our journey towards a cleaner and greener Anambra
Furthermore, Dr Odimegwu stated that the on-going “All Anambra Communities Plastic Wastes Recovery Challenge 2.0” is part of their move against plastic pollution, noting that the initiative aims to recover100,000 tons of plastic wastes, create 5,000 indirect jobs, strengthen the recycling value chain and improve waste management across the state
The commissioner affirmed that communities are actively participating in this challenge, and their efforts will be assessed and rewarded based on the amount of plastic waste they recovered. He stated that the collaboration will provide the state with technical expertise, innovative solutions and substantial resources that will not only enhance our capacity to effectively manage plastic wastes but also create economic opportunities, empower our local communities and elevate Anambra state’s profile as a leader in environmental sustainability.
Mr Benneth Obasiohia, the Technoserve Senior program manager in his remarks informed that Technoserve is a leading international development non-profit organization that harnesses the power of the private sector to help beneficiaries lift themselves out of poverty, with 29 countries committed to working with enterprising businesses and individuals in the developing world
Mr Benneth stated that Nigeria contributes significantly to global plastic waste , with 12% been recycled which has made plastic pollution a major social problem in the country, he noted that as Nigeria plastic solution activity aims to recycle 49,000 metric tons of plastic waste in two years with 29,000tons targeted from Anambra which is expected to boost local economies and create sustainable livelihoids.
He went on to state that “this can only be achieved through strategic collaboration across all leadership level, urging stakeholders to work together as the success of the initiative depends on collective action”
On his part, Mr Nwaribe Franklin, Senior Business Advisor, Nigerian plastic Solutions Activity while reading out the overview of Nigeria Plastic solution activity re-affirmed their commitment to helping us achieve clean, green and sustainable Anambra
The Chairman of ASWAMA Board, Prof. Emmanuel Ezenwaji delivered a speech on strategic partnership for improved waste management service delivery in Anambra, stating that all Environmental parastatals need to align together to achieve a clean state
In his speech, Dr Ezeanokwasa (UNIZIK) outlined waste management legislation, policy and regulations in Anambra state, stressing that there is need for proper regulation and amendments for optimum benefits to the agency so they can have the full force to carry out their duties
Earlier on, Managing Director of ASWAMA, Hon. Mike Ozoemena stated that the agenda of the stakeholders meeting which was to review and brainstorm on the state’s waste management outlook, exploring innovative solutions and strategies to fully realize the Governors vision of a clean, green liveable and prosperous Anambra. He appreciated the partners and stakeholders for their support towards making the state a pace setter in the country and assured that all deliberations and suggestions made at the engagement would be put into use to achieve more sustainable results
In attendance were: Commissioner for Economic planning and budget Mrs Chiamaka Nnake, SPAD on Market Mr Evarist Uba , TC chairmen of Anambra East and Anaocha l.g.a, Sir Ifeanyichukwu Chinweze and Hon Romanus Ibekwe , S.S.A to Gov on Envuronment Hon Nkachukwu Osita , Environment Ministry Perm. Sec Obodogha Tochukwu Prince Chris Azor (Member, ASWAMA Board), Prof Uzochukwu Ike (NAU), Community leaders, Environmental experts and representatives from various organization, waste pickers association of Nigeria (WAPAN), ,Anambra state waste Recyclers Association (ASWRA), Plastic Aggregators among others.
