Online Reporter
Talent Gore
Herald Reporter
MOST African countries face serious waste management challenges, making initiatives such as the Geo Pomona Waste Management facility in Harare a source of inspiration, Professor Charles Kihamba of the Tanzania Commission for Universities has said.
A delegation from the commission is in Zimbabwe and was led on a tour of the facility by Geo Pomona executive chairman and chief executive officer, Dr Dilesh Nguwaya.
Speaking after the tour, Prof Kihamba expressed his admiration for the progress made at Geo Pomona.
“I am happy to be here at Geo Pomona and I am impressed with the waste management system being implemented because this is the biggest problem we face in most African cities,” he said.
“Health hazards arise from unhygienic conditions, and one of the biggest threats to public health in Africa and other developing countries is the improper disposal of waste.”
Prof Kihamba said Tanzania could draw valuable lessons from Zimbabwe’s waste management model.
“We commend Geo Pomona because this is a very big project. We have seen the creation of over 500 jobs, and we appreciate the initiative.
“We hope that the relationship between Zimbabwe and Tanzania will continue to grow,” he said.
Prof Kihamba said in the future, they plan to bring people involved in waste collection and treatment from Tanzania to learn from Zimbabwe how waste is managed and transformed into value.
On his part, Dr Nguwaya said Geo Pomona remains committed to providing innovative waste management solutions.
“This is a major project. Many visitors have come here and are impressed. We are proud to champion waste management in Zimbabwe and to put our country on the map for our efforts in this sector,” he said.
In June this year, Geo Pomona Waste Management launched door-to-door waste collection in Harare, a development that was warmly welcomed by residents.
Dr Nguwaya said more refuse collection trucks are expected to arrive soon.
“The trucks have arrived in Beira and are awaiting clearance. They will be here soon, and we are ready to deploy them to help restore the Sunshine City to its former glory,” he said.
