On September 21, 2024, the vibrant city of Dar es Salaam witnessed an engaging event that brought together communities, schools, and organizations in a unified mission to combat waste and promote environmental conservation. The Let’s Do It Tanzania cleanup event, spearheaded also by our member Nipe Fagio, was a resounding success, showcasing the power of collective action in creating a cleaner and healthier environment.
A Day of Unity and Purpose
The event saw an impressive turnout, with 2,604 dedicated volunteers converging at seven strategically identified sites across Dar es Salaam. Armed with gloves, bags, and an unwavering commitment to the cause, these volunteers embarked on a mission to rid their surroundings of waste and raise awareness about the critical importance of waste management.
Remarkable Achievements
The results of the cleanup were nothing short of remarkable. Volunteers collected a staggering 1,953 bags of waste, amounting to a total weight of 22,366.52 kilograms. This monumental effort not only transformed the cleanliness of the targeted areas but also sent a powerful message about the impact of community-driven initiatives.
Community Spirit in Action
The success of the cleanup event can be attributed to the incredible spirit of collaboration and dedication displayed by all participants. Schools, local businesses, and community groups came together, demonstrating that when people unite for a common cause, significant change is possible. The event also served as an educational platform, enlightening participants and onlookers about the importance of proper waste disposal and environmental stewardship.
Looking Ahead
While the achievements of World Cleanup Day 2024 are commendable, they also highlight the ongoing need for sustained efforts in waste management and environmental conservation. Nipe Fagio remains committed to driving positive change and will continue to organize initiatives that inspire and mobilize communities towards a cleaner, greener future.
Join the Movement
Nipe Fagio extends heartfelt gratitude to all the volunteers, partners, and supporters who made this event possible. The success of World Cleanup Day 2024 is a testament to what can be achieved when we come together with a shared vision. As we look to the future, let us all pledge to maintain the momentum and work towards a Tanzania where waste is managed responsibly, and the environment is cherished and protected.
CEJAD and waste pickers to carry out plastic brand audit in Mombasa during World Coastal Cleanup Day
September 20, 2024, is marked as World Coastal Cleanup Day—a global effort aimed at removing trash from aquatic environments to reduce environmental pollution. To commemorate this day, CEJAD has joined hands with numerous organizations as part of the International Coastal Cleanup Committee, Kenya Chapter, to coordinate and collaborate on this initiative.
CEJAD’s involvement in the cleanup effort goes beyond just removing waste. We are partnering with waste worker groups and civil society organizations in Mombasa to conduct a plastic brand audit in Mombasa, Kenya.
The Objective
The primary objective of the brand audit is to identify the companies and brands most responsible for environmental and marine plastic pollution. The data collected from this audit will be used to advocate for better plastic waste management, including pushing for inclusion of waste pickers in Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs and promoting the use of environmentally friendly packaging alternatives.
Prior to the cleanup and brand audit, CEJAD will host a Democracy Lab on September 20, 2024, focusing on the topic of “Privatization of Waste Management in Mombasa County – Opportunities for waste pickers.” This forum will provide waste workers with an opportunity to learn about the county’s waste management plans, the progress made so far, and how the needs of waste pickers can be incorporated into a just transition under these plans.
On International Coastal Cleanup day, participants and volunteers will begin with a beach cleanup, followed by the brand audit. The audit will involve documenting the brands of plastic waste collected using a digitized form adapted from the Break Free From Plastic initiative. CEJAD will then analyze the data and publish a report with key findings and recommendations.
In the meantime, CEJAD and the Advisory Committee are finalizing the Brand Audit Plans. This includes training volunteers on how to use the digitized application for data entry.
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