By Abdulai Chernoh Sie
One of the leading waste collection institutions in Freetown, Klin Salone Waste Management, has received a major boost from the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) through technical training and certification support in waste management.
Speaking to this medium, German Urban Development Expert, Ruth Drugemoller, said they supported the organization in refining its project concept and preparing the initiative for discussions with local authorities.
She noted that effective waste management and transforming waste into meaningful resources formed part of her mission during the visit. She also emphasized the need for a well-planned system for garbage disposal across all dumping sites in the city.
SES Expert Ruth Drugemoller said Klin Salone has demonstrated a strong track record in waste collection in Freetown, adding that her visit and training sessions would further strengthen the organization’s efforts in garbage collection and in converting waste into useful materials.
She further stated that the training on management systems and financial bookkeeping would play a key role in building trust, accountability, and institutional development.
According to her, the good work being carried out by Klin Salone in cleaning and waste management across the city reflects the transparency and operational needs of the organization.
Drugemoller explained that part of her assignment is to help Klin Salone align, as much as possible, with German waste management standards. Although she acknowledged the differences are significant, she expressed confidence that with continued support, Klin Salone can grow to meet international standards.
She commended the organization for its relentless efforts in waste collection and its contribution to improving the health status of citizens in Freetown.
Meanwhile, Board Member of Klin Salone Waste Management, Foday Mahmud Sesay, praised GIZ for its continued support to the organization over the years.
He said the four-week visit and staff training by the GIZ/SES expert would go a long way in improving Klin Salone’s work, with a clear focus on promoting public health in the city.
Sesay further disclosed that Klin Salone is preparing to launch a pilot project aimed at improving waste management in selected neighbourhoods of Freetown by integrating both formal and informal waste collectors into the city’s waste management system.
He said the organization hopes to work closely with the Freetown City Council and other stakeholders to ensure the sustainability of the project and help keep Freetown clean.
He also expressed hope that the initiative could eventually be replicated in other cities across the country.
Also speaking, Abdul Deen Sie said the project began in 2006 as a community-based environmental initiative under the name Klin Salone. He noted that Freetown, like many rapidly growing cities in West Africa, faces significant challenges in managing household waste.
He explained that the proposed pilot project seeks to involve the so-called “Blaiboys” informal waste collectors who are already active in many communities but currently operate outside the official system.
According to him, Klin Salone has already held discussions with national authorities and is hopeful of receiving further support from the Freetown City Council.
