The Mbolo Association, in collaboration with the KanifingMunicipality Council (KMC), the Gambia Women’s Chamber of Commerce (GWCC), and the Metropolitan Area of Barcelona, has launched the O-Waste project.
This innovative initiative is designed to promote a circular economy within the organic waste value chain.
This three-year grant project, which is funded by the European Union (EU), aims to enhance the capabilities of local Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in policy dialogue and the execution of sustainable development initiatives. The project specifically targets the areas of circular economy practices, recycling, and sustainable agro-ecological approaches related to organic fertilizers.
Naffie Barry, President of the GWCC, revealed that the primary objective of the project is to facilitate farmers’ access to affordable and high-quality organic fertilizers by leveraging the organic waste present in markets and gardens.
“To establish a virtuous economic cycle that converts waste into a valuable product, we will introduce the first mechanical compost plant in The Gambia. This facility will serve producers, vendors, farmers, and the public sector with a focus on gender inclusivity. Upon installation, the plant will bolster the circular economy value chain by enhancing agricultural practices and mitigating the impacts of climate change,” she explained.
Mrs. Barry further indicated that the GWCC, as a stakeholder, will initiate customized activities to promote the dissemination, marketing, and commercialization of compost. “Effective waste management requires the involvement of not only the government but also the private sector and all citizens,” she stated.
Mrs. Barry emphasized that the GWCC will encourage and train women gardeners to collect their organic waste and apply it to their land, as well as engage in composting activities for financial empowerment.
Pa Sait Ceesay, Chief Executive Officer of the KanifingMunicipality Council and representative of Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda assured attendees of KMC’s ongoing support and commitment to further collaboration. He noted, “This initiative aligns with one of the council’s developmental objectives, which is to enhance recycling efforts. We are concentrating on recycling to prevent waste from being deposited in landfills.”
Mrs. Silvia Liopart Sambou, Coordinator and Project Manager, reported that the project commenced one year ago to promote a circular economy. “Our focus was on twelve markets, as these locations generate substantial organic waste. To date, we have successfully collected 2.4 tons of organic waste, for which KMC has provided commendable daily service,” she remarked.
Mrs. Sambou emphasized that the project’s success is attributable to the robust partnerships formed with KMC and other involved entities. This launch signifies a crucial moment for transforming waste management practices. The event attracted a diverse range of stakeholders and featured demonstrations on the process of compost-making from bio-waste.
