Geo Pomona Waste Management Private Limited Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Dr Dilesh Nguwaya addressed the 79th United Nations anniversary at the Rainbow Towers in Harare where he highlighted how the company is aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to promote a cleaner environment.
Here is Dr Nguwaya’s full speech at the anniversary celebrations held on Wednesday 6 November, 2024:
It is a privilege to be here today as we celebrate the 79th Anniversary of the United Nations under the inspiring theme “Sustainability in Action.” At Geo Pomona Waste Management Pvt Ltd, we are proud to align ourselves with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially in our commitment to combat climate change.
The waste sector is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for approximately 3.42% of national emissions. The primary gases of concern are methane, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen oxides. In response to this challenge, we at Geo Pomona Waste Management Pvt Ltd have implemented effective waste management solutions designed to minimize these harmful emissions and promote a cleaner environment.
One of our key initiatives is to plant trees across 150,000 square meters. These trees will not only absorb carbon dioxide but also enhance our local ecosystem.
We take pride in aligning our efforts with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
SDG 6: Access to clean water and sanitation
We operate a state-of-the-art wastewater treatment plant that effectively treats leachate, ensuring clean water management and protecting our water resources.
SDG 7: Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all:
Our upcoming Waste-to-Energy Plant will convert 1,000 tonnes of solid waste daily into clean energy, generating between 16 and 22 megawatts of electricity. This initiative exemplifies our commitment to sustainable energy solutions.
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth:
Our workforce has expanded significantly this year, increasing from 61 to 188 employees. This growth creates more opportunities for decent work and contributes to economic growth.
SDG 11: Sustainable Development Goal:
Through our innovative practices, we are addressing the challenges of sustainable cities, demonstrating that our model not only serves local communities but also has the potential to inspire smart city initiatives across the nation.
SDG 12: Promote sustainable consumption and production patterns:
We are committed to responsible consumption and production, including our initiative to encapsulate waste with impermeable materials, preventing the escape of greenhouse gases.
SDG 13: Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts:
We will harness methane from waste to produce energy, thereby reducing emissions and contributing to a more sustainable energy landscape.
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
We recognize that achieving these goals requires strong partnerships. We fully support President Mnangagwa’s initiative to establish a National Clean Up Day, rooted in our constitutional right to a healthy environment. This effort is vital for addressing waste management challenges in Zimbabwe.
As part of our commitment to a circular economy, we will also be feeding energy generated from waste incineration into the national grid, promoting sustainable practices that benefit our communities and the environment.
The Geo Pomona Waste Management site has evolved from a mere waste disposal area into a vibrant community entertainment arena, now boasting state-of-the-art sports facilities with including a FIFA Certified Soccer field and lush, green landscapes. This remarkable transformation is a testament to the power of collaboration.
For example, throughout the year, Geo Pomona Waste Management (Pvt) has worked closely with the United Nations, guided by the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, along with esteemed technical agencies such as UNEP, UNDP, UNICEF, UN Women, UNFPA, and FAO. Together, we organized the regional SADC commemoration of World Environment Day, drawing over 2,500 participants to adopt the Harare Declaration on Environmental Sustainability. This declaration now informs the SADC’s position at the African Union Conference on Environment.
During these celebrations, over five hundred youths and students engaged in enlightening activities promoting circular economies, tree planting, and climate action advocacy through skits, art, and poetry. Her Excellency Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa, the First Lady of Zimbabwe and a passionate patron of environmental sustainability, presided over this regional event.
She personally interacted with the young participants, emphasizing tree planting, clean-up campaigns, and the vital environmental sustainability principles of reduce-reuse-recycle.
Geo Pomona Waste Management (Pvt) Ltd has also joined forces with the UN to engage First Ladies of SADC countries in climate action and environmental sustainability advocacy, linked to the SADC Summit where Zimbabwe assumed leadership.
Together with Her Excellency Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa, the SADC First Ladies have championed sustainability messages and spearheaded tree planting campaigns, setting a powerful example for regional cooperation and leadership in action as mothers of their respective Nations.
Through such advocacy and tangible contributions to Zimbabwe’s circular economy, Geo Pomona Waste Management (Pvt) Ltd collaborates closely with Harare municipal authorities, local government, private sector, and the Harare community that make up our clientele. Their goal is to make Harare not just the sunshine city, but a shining example of sustainable urban living. The partnership with the UN and local stakeholders has fostered numerous opportunities for further collaboration.
As an organization, Geo Pomona Waste Management (Pvt) Ltd is eager to engage in structured partnerships, ensuring these cooperation and partnerships efforts bear measurable outcomes over time.
Given the diverse audience of Ambassadors and Heads of International Cooperation representing various countries here at this 6th of November 2024 United Nations Day, I would like to express Geo Pomona Waste Management (Pvt) Ltd’s commitment to learning from global experiences. The company is dedicated to fostering collaborations that yield better results, supporting the vision of communities thriving in clean and healthy environments across Harare and the country at large.
My team and I are excited to welcome you to Geo Pomona Waste Management (Pvt) Ltd, where we believe that seeing truly is believing. We aim to foster collaboration to create a better environment for current and future generations to enjoy and thrive in.
Together, through collaboration among governments, the private sector, and civil society, we can create a sustainable future for all.
Thank you for your dedication to this vital mission. Let us continue to take meaningful action for a sustainable world. I Thank you.
