The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has launched a three-day training course for 20 Sierra Leonean innovators selected under the Global Plastics Innovation Programme (GPIP). The initiative aims to help these innovators turn their ideas for combatting plastic pollution into scalable businesses that create jobs, strengthen communities, and promote sustainable development.
Funded by the United Nations Peace and Development Trust Fund, the training includes expert-led sessions, practical exercises, and networking opportunities. Participants will also receive ongoing technical support to tackle growth challenges and improve their business models for expansion.
Across Sierra Leone, innovators are tackling significant issues related to plastic pollution, such as waste collection, recycling, and circular business models. However, many face obstacles in accessing finance, forming partnerships, and scaling their operations.
The programme addresses these challenges by providing practical sessions on business planning, investment readiness, financial management, market development, and impact measurement.
Kevin Petrini, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Sierra Leone, stated, “Sierra Leone’s fight against plastic pollution is a story of innovation, entrepreneurship, and community leadership. Innovators are showing that waste can be turned into value, creating jobs and improving livelihoods.”
Binta Barrie, Lead for UniPod at Fourah Bay College, highlighted the knowledge and networks gained through the training as crucial for turning local solutions into sustainable enterprises benefiting communities across Sierra Leone.
This training is part of UNDP’s wider efforts across Africa to promote locally led innovations that reduce plastic pollution and foster sustainable practices.
