By Anas Seko, 2025 Africa Zero Waste Participant
I’ve had many beautiful experiences in my life, but the Africa Zero Waste Academy was truly special.
My name is Anas Seko, and I am from Benin, a tropical French-speaking country in West Africa. I am an activist, environmental communicator, and the founder of SEKO Green.
I had the pleasure of being selected for the inaugural Africa Zero Waste Academy in South Africa, organized by GAIA Africa (Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives). I can sum up my experience in three words: BLESSING, COMMITMENT, and SUCCESS.
BLESSING
Participating in this academy is an incredible blessing for me. Having long been engaged in waste-related issues, I had never before had the opportunity to attend a concrete capacity-building program on this subject.
Most training and attention have focused on climate issues, often neglecting the critical topic of waste management, even though it is vital at the local level.
While the climate emergency is undeniable, it is essential to deepen the conversation about waste and plastic pollution in our countries. This academy marks a significant milestone for me on a topic I am deeply passionate about, one that has a direct connection to climate issues.
COMMITMENT
This experience has strengthened my commitment to addressing waste issues. I truly appreciated the motivation and involvement of the other participants. It was the first time I met individuals dedicated to Zero Waste at an international level, each with touching and inspiring journeys. These exchanges fueled my desire to take action even more.
SUCCESS
This academy is undeniably a great success, and I am proud to be part of the very first cohort. We visited advanced recycling and composting facilities and enhanced our knowledge on several topics, including environmental justice related to waste, waste assessment, engagement and mobilization techniques, and the negotiations surrounding the plastic pollution treaty. GAIA Africa has set the bar very high, and we are ready to carry the Zero Waste message proudly wherever we go.
I’ve lived many beautiful experiences in my life, but this one stands out as truly special.
Thank you to the entire GAIA Africa team for the guidance and the opportunity to learn and grow.
ENDS.
