By Faridat Salifu
In a significant celebration of International Women’s Day, the Women and Youth Empowerment Initiative (WAPAN) has officially launched a Plastic Strap Upcycling Program designed to empower 600 young women across Jigawa State.
The initiative, which is a collaborative effort with UNICEF, the Jigawa State Environmental Protection Agency (JISEPA), and BASF, aims to provide women with essential skills for transforming plastic straps into valuable products, thereby fostering sustainable livelihoods and reducing plastic waste.
The training sessions for this innovative program are set to commence on March 10, 2025, and will run for four days in four local government areas: Kazaure, Dutse, Hadejia, and Gumel. Participants will learn how to convert discarded plastic straps into useful items such as laundry baskets and storage solutions, promoting both creativity and environmental consciousness among the youth.
The launch event took place today and was officiated by Hajia Amina Dan Modi, the First Lady of Jigawa State.
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In her opening remarks, she emphasized the importance of empowering women and girls in the region, highlighting that initiatives like these are vital for fostering economic independence and promoting gender equality. “Investing in our young women is investing in the future of our communities,” she stated.
Key representatives from WAPAN were present at the event, including President Comrade Salisu Ali Yarima, who expressed pride in the organization’s commitment to driving change through innovation. “This program not only addresses the pressing issue of plastic waste but also creates opportunities for our young women to thrive economically,” he noted. Other notable attendees included Alh. Ali Yakasai, Engr. Sunusi Badamasi, Mal. Aliyu Auwal, and Mr. Khalifa Sani, who all echoed the sentiment of collaboration and community empowerment.
The Plastic Strap Upcycling Program represents a proactive approach to environmental sustainability while also tackling the unemployment challenges faced by young women in the state. By equipping them with practical skills, the initiative aims to instill confidence and foster entrepreneurship, enabling participants to create marketable products from recycled materials.
WAPAN’s partnership with organizations like UNICEF and JISEPA underscores a commitment to not only empower women but also to promote environmental stewardship in Jigawa State. As Comrade Yarima concluded, “Together, we are closing the loop on waste and creating a more sustainable future for all.”
This groundbreaking initiative is expected to have a lasting impact on the lives of the participants, enhancing their economic prospects while contributing to the reduction of plastic waste in their communities.
