malvernmugadzikwa
Online Reporter
Geo Pomona Waste Management, who are developing a state-of-the-art waste-to-energy plant at a former dumpsite in Pomona, Harare, can become a point of reference for other waste management companies in the SADC region, Harare Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Charles Tawengwa said on Tuesday.
Speaking ahead of the SADC Industrialisation Week while touring the construction site, Minister Tawengwa said the project will foster skills transfer.
“With the SADC Industrialisation Week already around the corner, most SADC countries must learn from what Geo Pomona is doing and incorporate it into their own nations,” he said.
The US$328 million waste-to-energy project at Pomona dumpsite is moving according to plan, with Geo Pomona Waste Management meeting the targeted timelines in the roadmap it laid two years ago.
An integrated waste management system is being constructed with the aim of changing the whole culture of waste management.
Geo Pomona, which took over the Pomona dumpsite from Harare City Council in April 2022, has eliminated the stench and perennial fires that used to engulf the area, posing health threats to humans and the environment.
Construction of the structural works for the sorting, water treatment and hazardous waste plants is also in the pipeline while more than 150 people have been employed directly.
Geo Pomona Waste Management chief executive officer and executive chairman, Dr Delish Nguwaya, said the company was proud to impart their knowledge and skills to other entities.
“Currently, we have welcomed more than four universities within the country aimed at making sure that students have skills that go beyond an ordinary certificate and also transfer skills between my engineers and the students,” he said
“As Geo Pomona is one of its kind within the region, we have something to showcase to the Heads of State and officials who will be present at the SADC Industrialisation Week and the Summit.”
Minister Tawengwa was accompanied by Permanent Secretary Mr Cosmas Chiringa, Harare City Council town clerk Engineer Hosiah Chisango, among other officials.
Online Reporter