By Amaka Isikala

The Anambra State Ministry of Environment and TechnoServe have begun discussions on a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening environmental sustainability, waste management, climate resilience and the circular economy across the state.

The discussions commenced on July 17 when a TechnoServe delegation, led by its Programme Director, Mr. Shadrack Guusu, paid a courtesy visit to the Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Clem Aguiyi, to congratulate him on his appointment, present the organisation’s programmes and explore areas of collaboration with the Ministry.

Speaking during the meeting, TechnoServe’s Project Manager, Mr. Daniel Oderinde, said the organisation is well positioned to support the Ministry’s proposed Environmental Academy through technical expertise, capacity building and environmental education.

He added that TechnoServe is prepared to provide technical blueprints, strengthen collaboration among government agencies, non-governmental organisations and other stakeholders, as well as facilitate market linkages for recyclable plastics to boost waste recovery and promote a thriving circular economy.

Also speaking, the Programme Director, Mr. Shadrack Guusu, reaffirmed TechnoServe’s commitment to improving plastic recycling through community engagement, capacity building and measures that enhance the safety and productivity of informal waste collectors.

The organisation’s Business Adviser, Mr. Franklin Nwaribe, noted that TechnoServe has maintained a successful presence in Anambra State over the years and remains committed to aligning its interventions with the Ministry’s environmental priorities.

Responding, Dr. Aguiyi welcomed the proposed collaboration, stressing that partnerships should deliver measurable results and align with the state’s development priorities.

He reiterated the importance of institutionalising environmental education through the proposed Environmental Academy and called for support in curriculum development, technical training, provision of protective equipment and establishment of waste sorting facilities, particularly in schools, to nurture environmentally responsible citizens.

The commissioner urged TechnoServe and its partners, including the Coca-Cola Foundation, to expand interventions aimed at addressing flooding, gully erosion and plastic pollution.

He observed that while the state government continues to invest in tackling environmental degradation, sustainable solutions require public enlightenment, efficient waste management systems and the formalisation of the informal recycling sector.

Describing scavengers, scrap dealers and waste collectors as critical players in the circular economy, Dr. Aguiyi advocated structured training, safety education and technical support to improve their productivity and welfare.

He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to collaborating with development partners in advancing Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s Environment and Urban Regeneration Agenda towards building a clean, green, livable and environmentally sustainable Anambra State.

Dr. Aguiyi thanked the TechnoServe delegation for its commitment to the state and expressed confidence that the discussions would lead to a long-term partnership with lasting environmental benefits for Anambra.

Amaka Isikala is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State

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