By Ambrose Nwaogwugwu, November 26, 2024.
In recent times, concerns have been raised regarding the operations of Eastern Waste Management Company Limited (EWAMAC) and its partnership with the Imo State Government. While some narratives have been misleading, here are the verified facts about EWAMAC and its waste management and recycling project in Imo State:
1. The Recycling Plant Is Under Construction and Near Completion
EWAMAC is actively constructing a state-of-the-art recycling plant at Agbala. The plant’s infrastructure is at an advanced stage, signaling the company’s commitment to turning waste into valuable products. This facility will include:
An incinerating plant capable of generating electricity through an inbuilt turbine.
A waste sorting plant for separating recyclables like plastics, metals, and paper.
A composting plant for processing organic waste into fertilizers.
Plastic and metal recycling units.
2. Modern Waste Management Equipment Procured
EWAMAC has invested significantly in modern waste recycling machinery, which will be deployed immediately upon the plant’s completion. This includes specialized equipment to handle waste sorting, incineration, and recycling, ensuring Imo State embraces global best practices in waste management.
3. Privately Run Under a PPP Model
EWAMAC operates under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, meaning it is no longer funded by the Imo State Government. Similar to private companies like MTN or Glo, EWAMAC’s operations are based on a service-fee-driven model. This ensures sustainability without placing additional financial burdens on the state’s coffers.
4. Fair Billing Structure Based on Waste Generation
Contrary to claims of exorbitant charges, EWAMAC’s billing system is proportional to the volume of waste generated by each entity. For instance:
Businesses generating higher waste levels are charged accordingly.
Monthly reminders are sent to clients for four months before any enforcement action is taken.
Businesses are only sealed as a last resort when they refuse to pay for services rendered over an extended period.
5. Significant Economic and Environmental Benefits
Once operational, the Agbala recycling plant will:
Reduce environmental hazards by efficiently managing waste across the state.
Create job opportunities for residents in waste management and recycling sectors.
Provide electricity to neighboring communities through its incineration plant.
Promote sustainable practices by converting waste into reusable resources like compost and recyclable materials.
Addressing Misinformation:
It is essential to separate facts from sensationalized narratives. While challenges in any large-scale project are inevitable, EWAMAC remains committed to delivering world-class waste management solutions. Claims of extortion and non-performance are baseless when viewed against the ongoing construction progress and the tangible benefits the partnership promises for Imo State.
The Ministry of Environment, which has oversight functions regarding EWAMAC, has confirmed that it is effectively carrying out its duties in line with the relevant laws of the land. The Commissioner for Environment has reassured the public of the ministry’s dedication to ensuring EWAMAC adheres strictly to its responsibilities and delivers on its promises to the people of Imo State.
