African Development Bank Approves Groundbreaking Project to Tackle Hazardous Chemicals

The African Development Bank Group’s Board of Directors has approved a groundbreaking initiative to address the critical issue of hazardous chemicals in 11 Least Developed Countries (LDCs) in Africa. The “Scaling-up Investment and Technology Transfer to Facilitate Capacity Strengthening and Technical Assistance for the Implementation of Stockholm and Minamata Conventions in African LDCs – phase 2” (AFLDC-2) project will receive a $21.3 million grant from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), with co-financing from various projects supported by the African Development Bank across its urban, agriculture, and agro-industries portfolios.

This landmark project will address the urgent need for effective chemicals and waste management in Angola, Ethiopia, the Gambia, Guinea, Liberia, Mauritania, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Togo, Uganda, and Zambia. These countries face significant challenges due to limited regulatory frameworks, inadequate waste management infrastructure, and insufficient enforcement capacities, leading to the accumulation of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), such as pesticides and PCBs, and the widespread presence of mercury.

Recognizing the severe health and environmental risks posed by these hazardous chemicals, the project will focus on strengthening national capacities, advancing environmentally sound practices, and promoting circular economy approaches. By eliminating stockpiles of obsolete chemicals, reducing toxic emissions, and controlling waste pollution at the source, the AFLDC-2 project will deliver significant environmental and public health benefits while supporting participating countries in meeting their obligations under the Stockholm and Minamata Conventions.

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Gareth Phillips, African Development Bank Manager for Climate and Environment Finance, expressed his enthusiasm for the project. “The AFLDC-2 project marks a pivotal milestone in Africa’s efforts to tackle the challenges of hazardous chemicals and waste,” said Phillips. “As the African Development Bank’s first project financed exclusively under the GEF’s Chemicals and Waste Focal Area, we are proud to set this precedent and are optimistic that it will pave the way for many more to come. The Bank is honored to lead this transformative effort towards a cleaner, healthier, and more resilient Africa.”

This project demonstrates the African Development Bank’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection in Africa.

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