A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), Standup for Women Society (SWS), Rivers State Chapter, has called on members of the public to adopt responsible waste disposal practices to prevent drainage blockages and combat rising plastic pollution in the state. Speaking during an environmental sensitization campaign held at the Abali Indigenous Park in Port Harcourt on Monday.
The South-South Vice President of SWS, Anne Anyaka, emphasized the urgent need for behavioral change in waste management, especially among women, commuters, and small business owners. Anyaka said the awareness program targeted women, commercial drivers, passengers, and hair stylists who operate within the park.
The aim, she explained, is to raise awareness about the dangers of indiscriminate waste disposal and to demonstrate eco-friendly waste management practices. “Improper disposal of polythene and plastic waste not only affects the environment but also threatens aquatic life and public health.
This campaign is about empowering communities especially women with the knowledge to take action.” As part of the exercise, the group cleaned parts of the park and packed litter into proper disposal bags. Anyaka noted the absence of adequate waste bins at the park and said the organization is considering providing them in future outreach programs.
Also speaking at the event, the Chairperson of SWS Rivers State, Ednah Adigwe, applauded the women working at the park for their resilience and contributions to society. She urged them not to allow anyone to belittle their value. “You are not just breadwinners but builders of a better society.
Keeping your environment clean is also a form of leadership,” Adigwe said as she presented cleaning materials to the women. In response, Silvia Ubani, speaking on behalf of the park women executives, expressed appreciation to SWS for the initiative and pledged the group’s support in the fight against plastic pollution.
“We are grateful for this visit and will do our part to promote a cleaner and safer environment,” Ubani said. The event marks another step in SWS’s ongoing commitment to environmental advocacy and women’s empowerment across the South-South region.
