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Japan grants MVR 4 mil for Holhudhoo waste management project

Nafaahath Ibrahim
07 January 2020, MVT 11:22
Japan grants MVR 4 mil to Holhudhoo for waste management project. PHOTO: THE EDITION
Japan grants MVR 4 mil to Holhudhoo for waste management project. PHOTO: THE EDITION
Nafaahath Ibrahim
07 January 2020, MVT 11:22

Japanese government on Monday granted USD 301,755 to Holhudhoo Island of Noonu Atoll for the installation of a waste burning incinerator.

The grant was given under Japan's Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Projects (GGP).

During a special ceremony, Ambassador of Japan to Maldives Yanai Keiko and President of Holhudhoo Council Mohamed Naseer signed the grant contract.

The incinerator, invented by Thomas Technical Institute in Okinawa, Japan, enables waste burning without emitting smoke or toxic gas.

Further, it can burn a wide range of waste products such as kitchen waste, medical waste, green waste, used oil tires and nappies without the need for separation at a reasonable operational cost.

Speaking at the ceremony Keiko stated that the incinerator was specially designed to fulfill the needs of a small island.

She applauded efforts by the Maldivian government to tackle the waste management issue, adding that Japan would continue to provide support for such development projects.

Keiko highlighted that Holhudhoo island was chosen for the project due to the councils' eagerness to work with them.

Concluding the speech, she expressed hope that the project in Holhudhoo would inspire more islands to properly manage their waste.

Holhudhoo Council's President revealed that lack of proper waste management is a huge problem for the island.

During his speech, the council president stated that the waste management centre was located too close to homes due to the small size of the island which has a population of over 2200. This is already quite problematic as houses closest to the centre are already affected.

Noting that this is the largest grant of it's kind to be provided by the Japanese government, Naseer expressed gratitude to the country on behalf of the citizens of Holhudhoo.

Additionally, he expressed hope that in the future, 'together we can bring positive changes to such small island communities.'

Officials from Foreign Ministry, Environment Ministry and Holhudhoo MP Yoonus Ali attended the ceremony.

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