Waste pickers demand govt support, medical assistance for improved safety, well-being

*Laments lack of protective equipment and challenging working conditions

By Obiabin Onukwugha and Fatima Saka

Waste pickers, commonly known as scavengers or ‘Bababola’ in some communities, are seeking support from both the government and the private sector to ensure their safety and well-being.

Adequate protective equipment, access to medical assistance, and better health facilities closer to dumpsites are among the key demands of waste pickers to protect their lives and livelihoods.

In different Nigerian cities, these waste pickers are facing significant health hazards and risks while salvaging the environment through waste picking. They endure physical threats, environmental dangers, and inadequate safety measures.

The lack of proper protective equipment and medical assistance is leading to the loss of lives and contributing to their challenging working conditions.

In the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, a waste picker Abdullahi Umar revealed the daunting realities faced by their community.

He highlighted that, on average, two waste pickers die daily at the dumpsite while carrying out their duties. These fatalities are often the result of accidents involving large trucks or the lack of personal hygiene and healthcare attention.

Umar further explained that waste pickers encounter environmental hazards during their work, with some even falling from the trunks.

A major concern for waste pickers is the frequent occurrence of accidents at the dumpsite. Large trucks and heavy machinery pose a constant threat, and accidents involving waste pickers are tragically common.

Additionally, the lack of proper protective gear exposes them to various environmental hazards, such as toxic fumes, sharp objects, and hazardous chemicals present in the waste.

Beyond physical dangers, waste pickers also endure hardships due to harassment from law enforcement task forces.

Umar expressed his frustration, saying, “We work hard to clean up the city, yet we are sometimes attacked by the very people who are supposed to protect us.”

These attacks not only cause injuries but also financial strain as they often have to pay fines to continue their work.

The situation in Lagos State is no different. Abiodun Taiwo, Head of the waste pickers association at the Olusosun landfill in Ojota, Lagos, emphasized that health issues compound the challenges faced by waste pickers.

He highlighted that while medical assistance is essential, the leading cause of waste pickers’ death is often due to a lack of personal hygiene and neglect of their health status.

According to him, many waste pickers from distant states, mainly Hausas, struggle to afford accommodation in Lagos, leading them to sleep at the landfill site without access to proper healthcare facilities.

He explained, “Many waste pickers come from distant states and cannot afford accommodation in Lagos. They sleep at the landfill site, exposed to the elements, without access to proper healthcare facilities.”

This dire situation contributes to preventable deaths among the waste pickers, especially among those who cannot communicate well in English and are hesitant to seek medical attention for fear of being misunderstood.

In Port Harcourt, a city in Nigeria’s oil-rich Rivers State, some waste pickers see their profession as a lifeline for their families.

Sani, a scavenger from the old township, shared, “Through scavenging, I can take care of my two wives and five children.”

He takes pride in his work and occasionally finds valuable items like gold spoons, wristwatches, and household goods that he can sell for a decent income.

Despite the rewards, scavengers like Sani are aware of the health risks they face daily. “Injuries from broken bottles and inhaling bad odors from the refuse can lead to sickness,” he acknowledged.

While he opts to use hand gloves and sturdy shoes, the lack of proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) remains a concern.

Sani reported finding valuable items like gold spoons, wristwatches, and household items, which he sells for income.

However, he acknowledged the health hazards and risks involved, including injuries from sharp objects and respiratory issues due to inhaling bad odors.

In response to these challenges, the Waste Pickers Association of Nigeria (WAPAN) is taking steps to improve the waste pickers’ safety and well-being.

Suleiman Adama, General Secretary of WAPAN, highlighted that the association is working on providing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as boots, dressing kits, noise masks, hand gloves, and helmets to protect waste pickers during their hazardous work.

WAPAN is also collaborating with various organizations and the government to offer health insurance coverage under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

To change the negative perception of waste pickers in society, WAPAN has initiated the registration of waste , providing them with identity cards and numbers to ensure better organization and recognition.

The association also plans to conduct training programs for the waste pickers to improve their skills and safety awareness.

Addressing the challenges faced by waste pickers requires collaborative efforts from the government, non-governmental organizations, and the public.

Adequate protective gear, access to medical assistance, and improved health facilities close to dumpsites are among the key demands of waste pickers to protect their lives and livelihoods.

Recognizing the vital role waste pickers play in the environment and the community, it is crucial to support and uplift these dedicated individuals who contribute significantly to sustainable waste management.

By providing them with the necessary resources, medical attention, and respect they deserve, Nigeria can foster a safer and healthier environment for all.