In a significant move towards environmental sustainability, the Anambra State Government, in collaboration with TechnoServe and other partners, has launched a plastic waste recycling initiative under the Nigeria Plastic Solutions Activity. The initiative aims to tackle the growing plastic pollution problem in the state through strategic partnerships and innovative waste management solutions.
The stakeholders’ engagement, held in Awka, brought together over 160 participants, including government officials, community leaders, environmental experts, and representatives from various organizations. The event highlighted a shared commitment to creating a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable Anambra State.
The Nigeria Plastic Solutions Activity, led by TechnoServe and supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Coca-Cola Foundation, focuses on intercepting plastic waste at its source and converting it into valuable resources. The initiative not only aims to recycle plastic waste but also seeks to create jobs and foster sustainable communities, showcasing the commitment of its partners to environmental sustainability and economic development in Nigeria.
Adesuwa Akinboro, the Country Director of TechnoServe Nigeria, emphasized the importance of this initiative, noting that Nigeria contributes significantly to global plastic waste, with only 12% being recycled. Speaking at the event through Senior Programme Manager Benneth Obasiohia, Akinboro stated that the Nigeria Plastic Solutions Activity aims to recycle 49,000 metric tons of plastic waste over two years, with 29,000 tons targeted from Anambra State. This effort is expected to boost local economies and create sustainable livelihoods.
The Anambra State Commissioner for Environment, Engineer Felix Odimegwu, expressed that the initiative aligns with the state’s strategic vision for sustainable development and environmental stewardship. He highlighted the ongoing “All Anambra Communities Plastic Wastes Recovery Challenge,” which aims to recover 100,000 tons of plastic waste, reinforcing the government’s commitment to tackling plastic pollution.
The engagement featured various presentations, including a discussion on strategic partnerships for improved waste management by Professor Emma Ezenwaji, Chairman of the Governing Board of the Anambra State Waste Management Authority (ASWAMA), and insights into the Nigeria Plastic Solutions Activity by Senior Business Advisor Franklin Nwaibe. Rev. Fr. Dr. Jude Ezeanokwasi also presented on waste management policy and regulations in Anambra State.
The event concluded with ASWAMA Managing Director Mike Ozoemena expressing gratitude to all partners and stakeholders for their support. He assured that the agency would implement the suggestions made during the engagement to achieve more sustainable results in waste management across the state.
