Imo NGO Launches Textile Waste Initiative to Drive Environmental Sustainability, Youth Empowerment

A non-governmental organisation, The Healthy and Sanitized Environment Foundation (THASEF), has launched a new initiative aimed at tackling textile waste while promoting environmental sustainability, skills development, and youth empowerment in Imo State.

The programme, unveiled in Owerri in collaboration with the Imo State Ministry of Environment and Sanitation, is known as the THASEF Apprenticeship Training Aid (TATA) and is designed to address the growing environmental challenge posed by discarded fabrics and fashion waste.

Speaking at the unveiling of the first edition of the scheme, THASEF’s State Programme Coordinator, Amaraegbu Obinna Daniel, said the initiative reflects the organisation’s commitment to building a cleaner and more responsible society.

He explained that the project was inspired by the theme of the United Nations World Cleanup Day, which draws attention to the environmental dangers of textile and fashion waste.

“Across our communities, discarded fabrics and unused textiles contribute significantly to environmental pollution and climate challenges,” he said, adding that the TATA programme was created to equip apprentices with practical skills to transform waste into value.

According to him, the initiative combines environmental awareness with vocational training, encouraging responsible fashion practices while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities.

“Today, we are not just unveiling a training aid; we are unveiling hope, skills and a sustainable pathway for the future,” he added.

At the event, Miss Eze Emmanuella was announced as the beneficiary of the first edition of the THASEF Apprenticeship Training Aid. She received an industrial sewing machine to boost her productivity and strengthen her technical capacity in the fashion sector.

THASEF also presented an award of honour to the Imo State Commissioner for Environment and Sanitation, Major Ejikeme Emenike, in recognition of what the organisation described as his leadership and commitment to environmental sanitation and sustainability in the state.

Amaraegbu further disclosed that the second edition of the TATA programme would be open to fashion trainees who register through THASEF-certified volunteer membership.

Also speaking, the organisation’s Head of Programme Management, Dr Lopez Nwadibia, described the initiative as an empowerment-focused intervention targeting women and young people. He said the programme integrates hands-on fashion apprenticeship with structured training in sustainable practices, entrepreneurship, and environmental responsibility.

Representing the state commissioner, the Head of Environmental Health and Sanitation at the ministry, Mr Anozie Maduabuchi, commended THASEF for its foresight and innovation, pledging the state government’s continued partnership with the organisation.