AWKA, ANAMBRA STATE (8th August 2024) — The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), The CocaCola Foundation, and TechnoServe through The Nigeria Plastic Solutions Activity in collaboration with the Anambra State Waste Management Authority (ASWAMA) today held the Anambra Plastic Waste Recycling Stakeholders’ Event at Hilton Leisure, Awka. This significant gathering underscored the collective commitment to creating a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable Anambra State through strategic partnerships and innovative waste management solutions.
The event brought together about 160 stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, environmental experts, and representatives from various organizations. Attendees collaborated on developing strategic partnerships and innovative solutions for sustainable waste management in Anambra State.
Felix Odumegwu, the Commissioner for Environment, opened the event with a powerful remark emphasizing the critical importance of collective action in addressing the plastic waste challenge. “Our commitment to environmental sustainability is unwavering, and today’s gathering is a testament to our shared vision for a cleaner and healthier Anambra State,” Chidoka stated.
Speaking at the event, the Governor of Anambra State highlighted the state’s dedication to sustainable waste management practices. He remarked, “By fostering collaboration and leveraging innovative solutions, we can effectively combat plastic pollution and create a more sustainable future for our communities.”
Adesuwa Akinboro, Country Director of TechnoServe Nigeria, represented by the Senior Project Manager, Beneath Obasiohia emphasized the project's strategic importance in promoting the circular economy and creating green jobs. “By collectively working towards reducing, reusing, and recycling plastic, we can drive the circular economy, reduce plastic waste, and pave the way for a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future,” Obasiohia said.
The event featured presentations on strategic partnerships for improved waste management, waste management legislation, and an overview of the Nigeria Plastics Solutions Activity. Attendees discussed key topics, including waste dumps, landfills, health waste management, and community engagement and education, providing valuable insights and action plans for the future.
The Nigeria Plastic Solutions Activity is dedicated to intercepting plastic waste at the source and turning it into valuable resources, creating jobs, and fostering sustainable communities. This initiative exemplifies the commitment of USAID, The Coca-Cola Foundation, and TechnoServe to environmental sustainability and economic development in Nigeria.
About USAID: USAID leads international development and humanitarian efforts to save lives, reduce poverty, strengthen democratic governance, and help nations progress beyond assistance. In Nigeria, USAID supports humanitarian assistance, health systems strengthening, transparent and accountable governance, basic education, and a more market-led, trade-friendly economy. For more information about USAID and its programs, please visit www.usaid.gov/nigeria and follow us on Facebook and Twitter @USAIDNigeria.
About The Coca-Cola Foundation: The Coca-Cola Foundation’s mission is to make a difference in communities around the world where The Coca-Cola Company operates and where our employees live and work. We support transformative ideas and institutions that address complex global challenges and leave a measurable and lasting impact. Our giving is focused on sustainable access to safe water, climate resilience and disaster risk preparedness and response, circular economy, economic empowerment, and causes impacting our hometown community. Since its inception in 1984, The Coca-Cola Foundation has awarded grants of over $1.5 billion in service of its mandate to strengthen communities worldwide.
About TechnoServe: TechnoServe, an international development non-profit based in Washington, DC, is a leader in harnessing the power of the private sector to help beneficiaries lift themselves out of poverty. Operating in 29 countries, we remain committed to working with enterprising businesses and individuals in the developing world and emerging markets to build competitive farms, businesses, and industries. By linking people to information, capital, and markets, we have helped millions to create lasting prosperity for their families and communities. www.technoserve.org
For further information, please contact:
- Benneth Obasiohia, Senior Program Manager, TechnoServe: bobasiohia@tns.org
- Gloria Audu, Senior Communications Specialist, TechnoServe: gaudu@tns.org
Note: This press release is embargoed until 1 PM on August 08, 2024. Please do not publish or distribute before this date.
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