FAPAD fights plastic pollution in Amolatar schools

16 June 2025, 9:43 am

By Ivan Onyinge Bangwelo

On June 13th and 14th, 2025, Facilitation for Peace and Development (FAPAD) commemorated World Environment Day with a dynamic two-day educational campaign at Agikdak and Abalodyang Primary Schools. Centered around the theme “Beat Plastic Pollution: Don’t Just Throw Plastic Anywhere; Reduce, Reuse, Recycle,” the initiative rallied local communities to engage in meaningful environmental stewardship.

The events featured powerful messages from key speakers, notably Ms. Ayo Molly, the District Environment Officer. She emphasised the dire consequences of plastic pollution, highlighting that plastic takes centuries to decompose, poisoning our ecosystems, wildlife, and ultimately, human health. “Protecting the environment is everyone’s duty,” she stated, commending FAPAD for establishing school environmental clubs aimed at nurturing eco-consciousness from an early age.

Mr. Otile, the Community Development Officer (DCDO), praised FAPAD’s collaborative approach, asserting that their model of partnering with districts, subcounties, and schools sets a strong precedent. “This rollout approach ensures sustainability beyond just symbolic events,” he noted, indicating a shift toward more robust community-driven initiatives.

Honorable Robert Aya did not hold back in his criticism of governmental inaction regarding waste management, pointing out, “Policies on waste management exist only on paper.” His sentiments were echoed by Sub-County Chief of Akwon, Mr. Job, who raised a critical question about the ongoing reliance on plastics: “Why not abolish plastics entirely? People need a mindset revolution to end their dependency.”

FAPAD facilitator Okello Bonny outlined the ongoing efforts to combat plastic pollution, revealing plans to launch tree-planting drives and waste collection systems in both schools with support from Vi Agroforestry. This initiative represents a significant step towards fostering community-led solutions to environmental issues.

The resolute call to action did not end there. Ms. Molly urged the gathered community members to sustain this momentum by planting trees, rejecting single-use plastics, and holding leaders accountable for environmental policies. With the backing of Vi Agroforestry, the initiative aims to expand the environmental clubs within the schools and replicate this successful model across the district.

FAPAD’s initiative serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating how grassroots efforts can effectively confront the challenges of plastic pollution while instilling a sense of responsibility in future generations. The message is clear: protecting our environment requires collective action and a commitment to change.