As part of the solution to reduce disaster risk in slum communities in Freetown, the Women’s Network on Environmental Sustainability on Thursday engaged the Congo and Oloshoro communities on waste management systems as tools for disaster reduction.
Giving an overview of the project, Iyesha Josiah Kamara, internal consultant, WoNES explained about environmental damage and devastating consequences for people’s health and well-being. “We don’t want to speak only about waste management but what can we do to improve the health status of the community as a key contributor to ensure sustainable development,” said Kamara. Lamenting on the several disaster incidents in the country over the years and the economic loss during such crisis, Kamara said proper waste management is essential to reduce the risk associated with disaster.
Bockarie Bayoh, representative, Ministry of Health spoke about waste management and disposal, which causes stagnant water for insect breeding and floods during rainy seasons.
Using water polluted for bathing, food irrigation and drinking water can also expose individuals to disease organisms and other contaminants. Bayoh further underscored the importance of personal hygiene and proper waste management stating that insects and rodents are attracted to the waste and can spread diseases such as cholera and typhoid.
Jamiru Baryoh, representative, Masada deliberated on the processes of proper waste management and using waste management as a source for income generation.
Pa Alimamy Mansaray, chief, Oloshoro community, expressed appreciation for the waste management training of the community youth stating that with such education, his community will be proactive in disaster mitigation and reduction. Cleaning equipment, protective gear and cash incentives were presented to the selected cleaning committee to start the cleaning exercise in their various communities. SV/9/11/17
By Sylvia Villa
Friday November 10, 2017.
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