LIDFOHRP Launches Global Plastic Innovation Challenge to Turn Waste into Wealth
By Abu bakarr sidique kamara
Livelihood Development for Human Rights Promotion (LIDFOHRP) has officially launched the pilot phase of the Global Plastic Innovation Challenge Project, a pioneering initiative aimed at promoting single-use plastic recycling and strengthening local circular economies in Sierra Leone.
The project was officially unveiled on December 19, 2025, and will focus on the Western Urban and Western Rural Districts, where plastic waste poses serious environmental and public health risks. The initiative is funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA).
The project seeks to empower 40 young people both male and female—from four pilot communities to become green entrepreneurs, equipped with skills to recycle plastic waste into pavement and floor tiles. Over the project’s lifespan, the youths are expected to produce 7,000 tiles, creating sustainable livelihoods while reducing plastic pollution.
Speaking at the launch, Prince Kamara, Development Consultant and Chairman, raised alarm over the growing dangers of plastic waste, warning that plastic pollution poses long-term threats to the environment, infrastructure, and human life.
“Plastic waste can remain in the soil for hundreds to thousands of years,” Kamara said. “It damages land, blocks drainage systems, weakens structures, and contributes to flooding and environmental degradation. Plastic has taken over our system.”
He cited Botswana as a positive example in Africa, noting that plastic bags are not freely distributed there, a policy that discourages excessive use and careless disposal.
Kamara further highlighted the international nature of the Global Plastic Innovation Challenge, which brings together about nine countries worldwide to compete by demonstrating innovative ways of converting plastic waste into useful products that improve livelihoods. He emphasized that the initiative follows strict guidelines, including approved collection systems, trained professionals, and transparent procedures.
Also speaking at the event, Amadu Shaw, Senior External Relations and Advocacy Officer at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), described plastic pollution as a major environmental threat, especially to marine ecosystems.
“Plastic blocks waterways that lead to the sea, contaminates water, and affects fish and marine life,” Shaw said. “Recycling plastic into useful products protects public health, reduces disease, and creates job opportunities.”
He stressed the importance of community sensitization, noting that awareness is key to addressing the negative impacts of plastic pollution.
Abdulai Bangura, Founder and Director of LIDFOHRP, described the project as a landmark initiative designed to promote plastic recycling and foster resilient local circular economies.
“This project provides young people with the opportunity to be part of the solution to plastic waste pollution in their communities,” Bangura said.
He explained that, in collaboration with AFFORD, an accountable stakeholders’ committee has identified 40 youths from four pilot communities who will receive training and mentorship in plastic waste management, recycling, tile production, circular economy principles, and financial management. Participants will also benefit from Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLA) to support local resource mobilization and business development.
According to Bangura, the project has two main objectives:
Creating jobs and career pathways for young people in the plastic recycling sector, and
Fostering local circular economies by promoting recycling and sustainable consumption.
“We believe young people have the power to drive change and create a more sustainable future,” Bangura said, urging community members to support the initiative.
Dr. W. B. Primus, Executive Chairman and CEO of Good Shepherd Foundation USA, emphasized that plastic itself is not the problem, but poor management is.
“Recycling plastic brings money into the economy, puts food on the table, and builds resilience for women, youths, and communities,” he said.
Abu Bakarr Sesay, CEO of the Municipal Waste Collection Management under Freetown City Council, described plastic pollution as a global challenge and praised LIDFOHRP’s commitment.
“Plastic takes a long time to decompose. It is our responsibility to transform waste into resources,” Sesay noted.
Similarly, Unisa Mansaray, Project Officer for the Western Area Rural District Council (WARD-C), said the project complements existing waste management efforts and urged the youths to fully embrace the opportunity as a source of employment and community development.
Delivering the keynote address and officially launching the project, Abdul Rahman Sannoh, National Coordinator of the UNDP Small Grants Programme, expressed excitement about Sierra Leone’s participation.
He explained that the project is funded through the Government of China, channeled via UNDESA and implemented by UNDP. Each participating country receives USD 150,000, and in Sierra Leone, six organizations were selected to implement the initiative, with LIDFOHRP chosen for its proven expertise in plastic recycling and tile production.
“This project is a test case,” Sannoh said. “If handled well, Sierra Leone could emerge as a global leader in plastic innovation.”
He encouraged community leaders and youths to work collectively, noting that the project will run for nine months and could open doors for future opportunities.
Stakeholders, youth participants, and development partners pose for a group photo during the launch of the Global Plastic Innovation Challenge Project.
UNDP officials, LIDFOHRP leadership, and community representatives officially launch the Global Plastic Innovation Challenge aimed at transforming plastic waste into floor tiles.
Youth beneficiaries display project materials during the launch of the UNDP-funded plastic recycling initiative in the Western Area.
