The Green Africa Youth Organization (GAYO), founded in 2015, addresses Ghana’s waste management issues through community education, sustainable practices, and fair compensation for waste collectors. The initiative promotes environmental awareness and works to implement a Zero Waste Management Model across various regions. Notable engagement from figures like Prince William highlights the significance of GAYO’s efforts.
The Green Africa Youth Organization (GAYO), co-founded in 2015 by environmental science graduate Lisa Abdellah and Joshua Amponsem, tackles Ghana’s pressing waste management crisis exacerbated by climate change. Initially, GAYO focused on beach clean-ups and waste education among fishermen. Their efforts aimed to address the prevalent issue where communities improperly dispose of waste, significantly impacting local environments.
Recognizing the limitations of existing waste disposal methods, Abdellah transitioned to New Edubiase, introducing a Zero Waste Management Model. The initiative expanded into educational outreach, organizing competitions for schools and establishing composting projects. Students helped segregate waste, leading to successful recycling and the creation of sustainable products such as raincoats and school bags, showcasing a model for other communities to emulate.
To incentivize waste separation, GAYO provided households with designated bins and established buy-back centers. These centers ensure waste collectors receive fair compensation for recyclable materials. The organization primarily employs young staff under 35 and encourages innovative solutions through competitions, such as the African Climate Change Innovation Challenge, which rewards impactful ideas.
Their work drew significant attention, culminating in a meeting with Prince William during the Earthshot Awards, where he expressed interest in GAYO’s community support efforts. The subsequent prize money will facilitate the organization’s expansion across Ghana and into neighboring countries, like Botswana and Uganda.
In summary, the Green Africa Youth Organization plays a pivotal role in addressing waste management challenges in Ghana through innovative community-based programs. Their initiatives promote environmental education, sustainable practices, and fair compensation for waste collectors. Continued support from notable figures underscores the importance of their work, paving the way for broader implementation of their model in Africa.
Original Source: www.getaway.co.za
