By Sallieu S. Kanu
Freetown, Sierra Leone – On Monday, February 24, Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr met with His Excellency Aidan Fitzpatrick, the Irish Ambassador to Sierra Leone and Head of Mission, to explore potential areas of collaboration. Ambassador Fitzpatrick was accompanied by Mark Finegan, Director of the Civil Society Unit in the Development Cooperation and Africa Division of Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs.
During the meeting, discussions centered around the Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant in Freetown, which plays a pivotal role in converting liquid waste into briquettes. These briquettes serve as an affordable and sustainable alternative to traditional fuels, helping to address the issue of deforestation in Freetown. Currently, 82% of households in Freetown rely on wood or charcoal for cooking. This innovative initiative seeks to provide a more environmentally friendly solution.
In addition, Mayor Aki-Sawyerr highlighted the ongoing support from the World Bank, which is instrumental in advancing plans to establish a second Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant in the eastern part of the capital. This expansion aims to further reduce deforestation and promote sustainable practices in the region.
The meeting underscored the importance of international collaboration in addressing environmental and developmental challenges in Sierra Leone. Both parties expressed optimism about the potential impact of their joint efforts and looked forward to continued cooperation.