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 engagement with local authorities.
She noted that effective waste management and the transformation of waste into valuable resources formed a key 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.
Drugemoller stated that 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 capacity in both waste collection and recycling.
She further explained that training in management systems and financial bookkeeping would play a crucial role in building trust, accountability, and institutional growth.
According to her, the work being carried out by Klin Salone in sanitation and waste management across the city reflects both the organization’s commitment and the need for continued operational support.
Drugemoller added that part of her assignment is to help Klin Salone align, as much as possible, with German waste management standards. While acknowledging the significant differences, she expressed confidence that, with sustained support, the organization can grow to meet international benchmarks.
She commended Klin Salone for its tireless efforts in waste collection and its contribution to improving public health in Freetown.
Meanwhile, Board Member of Klin Salone Waste Management, Foday Mahmud Sesay, praised GIZ for its continued support over the years.
He said the four-week visit and staff training conducted by the GIZ/SES expert would significantly enhance the organization’s operations, with a strong 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 neighborhoods of Freetown by integrating both formal and informal waste collectors into the city’s waste management system.
He added that the organization intends to work closely with the Freetown City Council and other stakeholders to ensure the sustainability of the project and help keep the city clean.
He also expressed hope that the initiative could eventually be replicated in other cities across the country.
Also speaking, Abdul Deen Sie explained that 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 further explained that the proposed pilot project seeks to incorporate the so-called “Blaiboys” informal waste collectors who are already active in many communities but currently operate outside the formal system.
According to him, Klin Salone has already engaged national authorities and remains hopeful of receiving additional support from the Freetown City Council.
