Somalia Tackles Plastic Pollution on Beaches, Boosts Marine Ecosystems

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Somali youth have launched a campaign against the littering of plastic waste on the beaches of the capital, Mogadishu, infusing vitality into marine ecosystems that support livelihoods.

This initiative for environmental protection began at Mogadishu's Liido beach in the Abdiaziz district two years ago. It started with only six volunteers, but the campaign has now grown, attracting thousands of volunteers from universities and community-based organisations. 

Abdiwahab Sudi Nihaye, the assistant team leader, said: "We started cleaning the waste, especially the plastic, at the beachfront with only six volunteers. We are committed to realising our dream of seeing clean and safe beaches as part of environmental protection. The timing was also challenging because we carry out such activities early every Friday morning."

Nihaye explained that the objective is to reduce threats related to plastic pollution, which harms not only visitors, youths, swimmers, and businesswomen at the beaches but also sea creatures.

"Liido beach is visited by thousands of local people and foreign tourists as one of the most beautiful tourist destinations. They tour by boats, swim, play football, and come for fun. Therefore, we are working on securing their safety by cleaning plastic and anything that poses a threat to human life. Our communication is open, and we welcome volunteers to join our community," Nihaye said.

 Courtesy: www.theeastafrican.co.ke