By: Mohamed Sahr
Fostering conscious efforts in streamlining climate change challenges, as well as amplifying the ripple effects to restore the human activities to the livelihood of the environment, Shout Climate Change Africa (SCCA) has held its 7th Edition of Environmental Care Awards on Friday at Radisson Blu Aberdeen, Freetown.
Madam Doris Massaquoi, Technical Adviser of Shout Climate Change Africa said the gathering of different institutions and partners defines the profound impact of the collective actions taken to protecting the climate even though the unprecedented challenge it faces.
She mentioned that in the view of climate change, pollution and biodiversity lost, those who are fortunate to champion this year’s climate change and environmental course would work to gather in propagating the transformative power of shared commitment.
“They winners remind us that to no effort is too small, and every contribution comes as a force for change,” Madam Massaquoi said.
She added that the initiative showcases the beacon of hope those passionate individuals have demonstrated; emphasizing that their works illuminate the drive towards sustainable future, innovative technology and community-led project that endeavor and represent the crucial fight in building a space where man, environment and plant coexist.
Madam Massaquoi revealed that the awards serve as motivation and prosperous commitment of various winners in fostering seamless paths that contribute to Ernest a sense of sharing to paving away of attaining a sustainable livelihood.
Manuel Muller, European Union Ambassador to Sierra Leone said the EU remains supportive to ensuring that the green economy is achieved. He noted that they would continue to work with development partners in providing beach education and other initiatives for a vital diversity workforce.
“The coastal areas are often used as nursing for providing shelters for the early stages of life recycling,” Ambassador Muller said.
He said coastal tourism centres on pristine beaches which contribute substantially to the economy, and degradation of beaches could lead to the destruction of the planet, pollution and climate change.
Ambassador Muller urged Sierra Leoneans to practice tree planting, cleaning of plastic wastes and fight against climate change.
He thanked Scout Climate Change Africa for recognizing individuals who have made significant strides towards maintaining eco-friendly environment.
Henry John Omaku, Nigeria High Commissioner to Sierra Leone said the 7th Edition of Environmental Care Awards throws light on various individuals who are protecting and preserving the ecosystem as well as climate change. He mentioned that spreading quality time in natural environment offers good mental health. “It is important for us to create space for green environment and fresh air for a lively environment,” Commissioner Omaku said.
He encouraged the Government of Sierra Leone to promote and propagate the climate change crusade. Commissioner Omaku appreciated to organizers of the Awards for ensuring successful outcome.
Ahmed Atata Mansaray, National Youth Commissioner said they would ensure to collaborate with organizations in order to contribute to amplifying climate change and maintaining the green environment. He furthered that the human activities to the environment have made the process discouraging. “The activities of young people and all of us is one that we have to checkmate,” Commissioner Mansaray expressed.
The 7th Edition of Environmental Care Awards was climaxed by recognition and awarding of individuals and institutions. The Most Environmental Conscious Mayor of the Year goes to Freetown City Council Mayor Yvonne Aki Sawyers.
Whereas, the award for the Lead Conservative of the Year goes to Gola Forest Conservation, Fomba Kanneh.
Orange Sierra Leone, Rokel Commercial Bank Limited, World Bank, UNDP, Tacugaama Chimpanzee Sanctuary among others topped various awards.