REPORT OF THE AFRICAN PEOPLE’S COUTER COP IN SALY, SENEGAL

Climate Justice Counter COP African Climate Justice Collective

INTRODCTION

Africa has been experiencing climate crisis for several years and striving towards survival in the face of these crises. Africa produces less than 3% of the greenhouse gases (GHG), which is a small fraction compared to the pollution caused by the global North. The imbalance gave rise to the1992 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change to concentrate efforts and find solutions to the climate issues across the globe.

Despite the restrictions, shrinking civic space and the failure of the UNFCCC COP, the APCC has thoroughly delved into the climate and ecological issues affecting the common people, giving voices to the voiceless, and creating a platform of unity where all affected groups including CSOs, academia, activists and community people to speak in one voice, against the injustice of the global north.

ABOUT THE APCC

From 7 to 10 of October 2024, the African Climate Justice Collective (ACJC) held the first physical African People’s Counter COP (APCC) in Saly, Senegal after three years of meeting, with the theme; “United Against Systematic Oppression and Climate Change in Africa”. The APCC was attended by  participants from social movements, grassroot communities, civil society organizations, academics, experts, workers, and others from 21 countries including, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Mali, Mauritius, Mauritania, Madagascar, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Togo and Zimbabwe.

Day 1: Day one of the APCC was the opening ceremony with opening speeches from key participants, facilitators and organizers. In her opening speech, Trusha Reddy, the representative of Womin, stated that Africa has been experiencing climate crisis for several years and striving towards survival in the crisis. According to her, Africa is not at the origin of climate crisis because Africa produces less than 3% of GHG, which is a small fraction compared to the pollution caused by the global north.

In a keynote address, Ibrahim Thiam who spoke on the topic, “Systemic Oppression and Climate Justice: The People’s Experience” stated that climate change Impacts countries differently and there are victims who can testify by these challenges. He cited issues of endemic poverty, limited access to financial resources, lack of water and other human related issues.

Speaking on behalf of the ACJC, Rumbidzai Mphalo stated that the APCC has gathered organizations that have hosted the peoples' assemblies in their communities and countries, so they can tell their stories and testimonies according to the realities and difficulties encountered in the local communities. She added that the ACJC is fighting for justice to proffer solutions to the crisis in Africa.

Executive Director of LSD, Aly MARIE SAGNE, who spoke at the opening ceremony, called on all organizations to stand firm in their fight against injustice, to fight for the right of the people to a healthy environment, supporting communities to demand reparations and pushing the government to respect the public good.

The opening day of the APCC also featured stories of resilience against environmental injustice from the communities represented, breakout sessions that looked at Solidarity building that highlights community struggles and panel discussions.

Day 2: The second day of the program started with a music presentation from APCC delegates, followed by a recap of the previous day and a layout of the day’s plan. It was closely followed by a Break Away session which looked at “Africa’s Climate and Ecological Hotspots: Opportunities for movement building”. Delegates examined possible social movements that can be developed to push the African ecological stories and climate injustices on the people.

Another break out session from Day 2 was the Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA)  session on “Breaking Free from Methane: Africa’s Journey to a Zero Waste Continent”, which was co-hosted by Community Development Advocacy Foundation (CODAF), Center for Earth Works (CFEW), Zero Waste Senegal and Andasonia Green.

The third break out session of the APCC was on Climate Debt, and how the climate crisis relates to the climate debt, followed by presentations from the People’s Assembly actions from the different countries, including a presentation by Elvira Jordan on behalf of CODAF, on the People’s Assembly action in Beniboye, Isieayegbene and Odimodi Communities. This was also followed by presentations and stories of resilience from community representatives, including a presentation by Godwin Awese.

Day 3: The APCC started with a recap of the previous day then followed by a music/ poetry presentation. It also featured a meeting of all thematic areas of the APCC to aggregate their demands, to be added to the declarations. The sessions included Food Sovereignty, Just Transition, Climate Debt and Ecological Hotspots. 

The highlight of Day 3 was a joint session with the Women Climate Assembly and a Solidarity March for Climate Justice in Africa.

Day 4: The final day of the APCC was a press conference which presented the outcomes of the APCC and the demands made by the delegates. There was also an evaluation of the APCC 2024, looking at how the program can be improved in subsequent sessions.

The APCC ended with commitments by the delegates to use the declarations, followed by music, poems and solidarity songs.

KEY THEMES DISCUSSED AT THE APCC

1. Food Sovereignty which highlighted the need for strengthening of agroecological practices,  community forest and land management, pastoralism and local fishing practices especially for women who constitute the majority in the rural areas.

2. Just Transitions that interrogated labour considerations in energy sovereignty, the fast, fair and equitable fossil fuel phase-out, and system change as we move towards renewable energy adoption and green industrialization for the African continent.

3. Zero Waste Systems as an opportunity for African governments to incorporate decentralized waste management practices to reduce methane emissions.

4. Climate Finance with a focus on the financial architecture needed for the just transition, adaptation and mitigation and loss and damage fund. The call for ensuring that the most vulnerable communities affected by climate change have access to the funds.

DECLARATIONS

1. Climate Justice Now: We demand climate justice for Global South communities at the centre of the climate action. The Global North nations who have contributed the most to the climate crisis must lead the process of cutting emissions at source, and fund the needed transitions as payment for the climate debt owed to the Global South. We denounce all forms of false solutions to climate change such as REDD+, Net zero, and Geo-engineering which further entrench the climate crises.

2. End Fossil Fuel Extractions Across Africa NOW: All forms of fossil fuel exploration, extraction and production across Africa must be halted immediately. It is time to prioritize sustainable practices through people-centered renewable energy that protects our ecosystems and supports local economies. Fossil fuel companies must pay for the rehabilitation of degraded land, oceans and rivers resulting from hydrocarbon extraction.

3. Migration and Climate-Induced Displacement: With increasing climate crises, many Africans are forced to migrate, risking their lives in dangerous journeys to the Global North or becoming climate refugees within Africa leading to food, land and conflict insecurities. Addressing this requires adaptation and resilience building towards climate impacts, such as droughts, flooding, coastal erosion and desertification, and ensuring that communities have the resources to remain in their homelands or relocated to conducive settlements without destroying their livelihoods, culture and language.

4. Climate Debt, Reparations, and Economic Reforms: Climate reparations, remediation and compensation to the impacted peoples of Africa alongside colonial reparations, must be paid to African nations and the Global South, reflecting the scale of damage caused by climate change and historical exploitation. These reparations should be in the form of grants, not loans that further entrench debt. The APCC demands a dedicated global finance mechanism for loss and damage, with at least $100 billion in new and additional funding per year by 2030. This must be provided by countries in the global north, who bear the historical responsibility for global emissions. African countries should focus on value-added beneficiation, and strategic partnerships, that elevate Africa's position in the value chain. There is an urgent need for structural tax reform of the current financial architecture that will plug illicit financial flows and tax evasion by transnational corporations (TNCs). The APCC firmly opposes the commodification of African forests, land and natural resources through carbon trading.

5. Reform Land Laws and Promote Food Sovereignty: African governments must embrace food sovereignty by prioritizing local food crops over cash crops and promoting seed preservation methods that resist GMOs. This protection must include ratified binding policies such as the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Peasants and Other People Working in Rural Areas. There is an urgent need to reevaluate customary laws that empower local communities. African nations require a minimum of $15 billion annually by 2030 to finance agricultural adaptation measures, and at least $5 billion per year must be directed toward agro-ecological practices.

6. Energy Sovereignty and Democracy for All: The transition towards renewable energy within Africa must be supported as a priority before Africa exports our resources for the Global North’s transition. Renewable energy projects must be socially owned and benefit women, youth indeginous people and local communities before industry. The transition must be grassroots-driven, ensuring that policies prioritise the well-being of people and the environment, not corporate profits.

7. Stop Waste Colonialism: Africa is not a dumping ground and we are not disposable. It is therefore paramount for us as Africans to adapt to the Global Plastics Treaty which allows us to address plastic pollution across its lifecycle, from extraction to production and disposal.

8. Free Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) and Self Determination: Women, indigenous peoples and their communities' right to FPIC need to be ratified and implemented in all extractive projects. Communities must have the right to say no or yes to development. Should communities say yes, they should dictate the terms of the project in a manner that benefits them and their environment. Compensation should be commensurate to the level of displacement and losses.

9. Involve the impacted and marginalized in decision-making: Governments should develop sustainable participation mechanisms that bring women, youth indigenous people, people with disabilities and herders, fisherfolk, small-scale food producers’ voices to the policy table to create people-centred policies and real solutions that address the effects of climate change. The demands of the impacted people in their diversity must be heard and respected.

10. Resilience building in Africa: Africans should rise against systematic oppression and climate injustice by sharing their resilience skills and traditional knowledge through storytelling, experience sharing, and learning and put this knowledge into practice in our African communities led by indigenous people and women. This knowledge must be respected and incorporated into other systems and processes, as it is expert knowledge.

CONCLUSION

African People’s Counter COP (APCC) recognizes that African voices have largely been excluded from the UNFCCC COP which has been captured by Global North states and corporations that continue to fuel the climate crises while falsely claiming to solve the causes of climate change. The APCC is therefore a movement to denounce the COP whilst highlighting the impacts of climate change on African communities and showcasing viable alternative solutions that have emerged through knowledge sharing and activism from grassroots African communities, experts, activists and CSOs. 

The event which has come to stay, will influence policies on world platforms and tables of discussion, as far as the environment is concerned.

CODAF LAUNCHES ZERO WASTE CAMPUS PROJECT IN FUPRE

End Single Use Plastics Campaign in Campus

INTRODUCTION

The escalating issue of plastic pollution presents a substantial challenge to environmental sustainability in Nigeria. The inadequate management of waste and the excessive utilization of single-use plastics have adverse effects on ecosystems, public health, and community well-being. Compounding these challenges are deficient waste governance systems, a lack of awareness, and limited community engagement. Consequently, an urgent imperative exists to advocate for sustainable practices and enhance awareness regarding the hazards associated with the persistent use of single-use plastics.

In line with the above, Community Development Advocacy Foundation (CODAF) embarked on yet another project aimed at promoting sustainable practices and mitigating various forms of plastic pollution in the environment. This was done by the introduction of the Zero Waste model to youths and undergraduates in Nigeria, starting with the Federal University of Petroleum Resources (FUPRE) in Warri, Delta State.

ABOUT THE ZERO WASTE CAMPUS PROJECT

The Zero Waste Campus Project with the theme “End Single Use Plastics Campaign in Campus" is a component of the CODAF School of Governance program with specific emphasis on fostering zero-waste governance in Nigerian universities. The project is targeted at two major Nigerian universities, namely the Federal University of Petroleum Resources and the Delta State University of Science and Technology Ozoro, both situated in Delta State, with a dedicated focus on sustainability, by collaborating with the staff and students of these institutions.

Through this project, CODAF launched a "plastic-free campus" as a means of reinforcing the broader campaign to prohibit single-use plastics in the Nigerian society, thereby promoting sustainable practices and mitigating various forms of plastic pollution in the environment.

The objectives of the project is to foster zero-waste governance in Nigerian universities by launching a "plastic-free campus" initiative, to reinforce the broader campaign to prohibit single-use plastics in Delta State to promote sustainable practices and mitigate various forms of plastic pollution in the environment, and to collaborate with the staff and students of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources Effurun and Delta State University of Science and Technology Ozoro to achieve a plastic-free campus. The project is in three phases, which includes the Launch and Zero Waste School of Governance Training, Brand Audit and other project activities and the policy advocacy phase.

ACTIVITIES CARRIED OUT

COLLABORATION: On September 9th, 2024, the project was officially launched with the presentation of the Plastic-Free Campus blueprint and the Zero Waste School of Governance manual to the Vice Chancellor of FUPRE by the Executive Director of CODAF. This initiative fostered a shared understanding for the project's implementation at the university, clearly defining its goals and objectives to ensure its long-term sustainability.

LAUNCHING: On the 10th of September 2024, the Zero Waste Campus project was launched in FUPRE, with the Vice Chancellor, the entire managerial staff of the University, students and the media in attendance. The event, which was held at the New Auditorium of FUPRE, had over 150 people in attendance.

In his welcome address, the Executive Director of CODAF, Benin Richard stated that the Zero waste campus project is a comprehensive strategy to build a sustainable waste management culture on campuses, not just aimed at reducing plastic waste, but to also establish an ecosystem where responsible consumption, waste reduction and recycling are given top priority. He appealed to the University to set up a sustainable water project to serve the university, and to also consider setting up a post graduate program on zero waste to further drive the zero waste model in the academia.

While speaking on “Why Zero Waste” GAIA Africa Clean Energy Campaigner, Weyinmi Okotie stated that the Zero Waste model promotes a circular economy that encourages a society to produce waste that can be reused. He added that the Zero waste goals also looks at responsible production of waste that goes beyond educating end users on waste management, into also advocating for producers to be responsible for the waste they generate.

While launching the project, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Akpofure Rim-Rukeh stated that his duty as the VC includes looking into areas that will make the University relevant to the society and as such, the Zero Waste Campus project has presented yet another opportunity as relates to the institutions motor of excellence and relevance. He added that the university prioritizes waste management, hence the setting up of the center for waste management in the university. The VC accented to welcoming any collaborative effort with CODAF to further drive the Zero Waste Initiative, and to also look towards suggestions for the establishment of a Post Graduate program on Zero Waste in the university.

Other speakers at the launch were the CODAF Project Manager on Environment, Melody Enyinnaya, and the Director of the FUPRE Center for Waste Management and Sustainable Resource, Dr. Akinyemi Ogunkeyede.

The students also presented artistic wares and household items that were made out of waste, to further drive the message of reusing and repurposing of waste.

PRESENTATION OF DOCUMENTS

The CODAF team presented some documents to the VC and administration of the school, to further guide the Zero Waste initiative in the university. One of the documents is the Zero Waste Guidelines developed by GAIA Nigeria to facilitate the implementation of zero waste practice. 10 hard copies of the zero waste guidelines were formally presented to the institution where some of the copies will be seated at the university library. The second document is the Plastic-Free Campus Blueprint; A strategic blueprint outlining practical steps for transitioning the university into a plastic-free campus, which will involve collaborative efforts with the Students Union and the University Management to ensure a smooth and effective transition.

TRAINING

Based on the school's recommendation, 60 participants comprising both students and staff, were trained as part of the "End Single-Use Plastics Campaign on Campus" to promote Zero Waste practices within and beyond the school. The two-day training covered topics such as an Introduction to Zero Waste by Melody Enyinnaya, Data Management in Waste Assessment by Nohwo Fred, Material Recovery Facility (MRF) by Melody Enyinnaya, Sachet Economy/False Solutions and organic waste management by Weyinmi Okotie, and Inorganic Waste Management/Maggot farming by Melody Enyinnaya. The training also included group work and interactive sessions to reinforce the knowledge shared with participants.

PLASTIC FREE AMBASSADORS

At the end of the training, a total of 60 ambassadors made up of students and lecturers from FUPRE were inaugurated as Plastic-Free Campus Ambassadors, tasked with the duty of promoting the zero waste model within and outside the campus and to transfer such knowledge and consciousness to other students and lecturers within the school campus, other higher institution and their individual communities.

The Director of the Center for Waste Management and Sustainable Resources of FUPRE, Dr. Akinyemi Ogunkeyede who will be heading the Plastic -Free Campus Ambassadors stated that the group would develop and implement projects that will look towards the drastic reduction of plastic within the school, and further expose the environmental and economic possibilities around Zero Waste.

Radio Discussion 

At the EnviroGist radio program on 13:09:2024, Dr. Akinyemi was a guest to discuss the campus zero waste project, the waste management strategies of the institution and how to bring this knowledge down to communities and interested individuals. Dr. Akinyemi used the moment to notify the general public that the institution will be starting up post graduate programs around zero waste as stated by the VC during the launch and that the zero waste campus project has created a platform for knowledge sharing between the university and communities. In no time training on repurposing waste materials will commence where individuals outside the university will be trained on how to reuse and repurpose. 

CONCLUSION

The introduction of the Zero Waste model to students is fast becoming an important subject matter, especially among the young generation, as the project has highlighted that the higher percentage of waste developed within Africa is made of plastic. This project has exposed the dangers of plastic waste to the environment and how production and use of single-use plastic contributes to the climate crisis in the world today. The project has also discouraged false waste management solutions such as incineration and burying of waste, thereby highlighting the possibilities in Reducing, Reusing, Repurposing and Recycling waste for environmental protection and a circular economy. We are certain that this project marks the beginning of Zero Waste as an academic study in higher institutions.

RECOMMENDATIONS

·         Looking at the scourge of waste pollution, there is a need to set up Zero Waste Campus projects across all Universities in Nigeria, to promote zero waste among youths and to instill that knowledge in institutes of learning.

.       To keep pace with the evolving dynamics of our environment and society, it is essential for schools to update their curriculum by introducing courses that address these challenges. For instance, incorporating Zero Waste courses at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels would be highly beneficial.

·         In order to promote a circular economy, segregation of waste from source, collection and recycling points should be set up across the board to reduce waste.

·         Sensitization on waste segregation should be carried out, to educate people on waste segregation. If we can get this right, zero waste will be made easier.

·         Waste management  call to end single-use plastics should go beyond educating end users, to move towards the multinational corporations that keep producing waste without any plans for end use. Laws should be set up to hold producers accountable for the waste they produce.

 

NEWS HEADLINES

https://thesouthernexaminer.com/africas-premier-petroleum-varsity-fupre-moves-to-tackle-ndeltas-waste-m-p12705-95.htm

https://elviraspen11.blogspot.com/2024/09/fupre-to-introduce-post-graduate.html

https://naturenews.africa/fupre-pioneers-nigerias-pg-diploma-in-waste-mgt-technology/

https://www.popularnews9ja.com.ng/fupre-to-introduce-postgraduate-programme-in-zero-waste-management/

https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2024/09/25/fupre-to-introduce-zero-waste-management-post-graduate-programme-in-2025-2026-academic-year/

COMMUNITIES CRY OUT OVER NEGLECT, AFTER MASSIVE OIL SPILL SINCE JULY

Niger Delta Communities Present Case at African People's Counter COP Over Massive Oil Spill

Environmental groups, activists urge Lagos govt to halt Waste-to-Energy Incineration plan

Press Briefing GAIA Zero Waste

A coalition of environmental activists and climate crusaders under the aegis of the Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA) have faulted plans by the Lagos State Government to build waste-to-energy incinerator plants in Epe, Ikorodu and other parts of the state.

 In their quest for a just, toxic-free and zero waste world, the advocates urged the Lagos State Government led by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to halt plans to adopt the Epe Waste-to-Energy Incinerator, adding:  “We strongly recommend that the state government immediately stop its plans to build waste-to-energy incinerator plants and impose a moratorium on the building of any waste incineration plants across the state.”

  Members of the coalition, who were drawn from different parts of Nigeria stated this, yesterday, at a media briefing on The Urgent Call to Halt Plans for Waste-to-Energy Incinerator in Lagos State, also charged the state government to urgently adopt a zero waste approach to mitigate the impacts on the environment.

 “We strongly urge the Lagos State Government to prioritize the implementation of zero waste strategies, which exemplify a truly circular economy-driven strategic approach to resource management and preservation, such as reduction of waste generation, source segregation, recycling, composting and reuse programmes,” they stressed.

The groups are, Sustainable Research and Action for Environmental Development (SRADev); Pan-African Vision for the Environment (PAVE); Sustainable Environment Development Initiative (SEDI); Community Development Advocacy Foundation (CODAF); Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN) and Green Knowledge Foundation (GKF).  Others are the Centre for Earth Works (CFEW); Lekeh Development Foundation; Community Action Against Plastic Waste (CAPws); Policy Alert; Young Farmers Network and Ecocykle.

 They also enjoined the Lagos State Government to engage in broader consultation with the public and civil society organizations, maintaining that a comprehensive and transparent consultation process should involve the fence-line communities, environmental activists, waste management experts and public engagement to accurately inform the public about the potential environmental, social and health implications of the proposed incinerator on communities in Epe and their ecosystems.

 Furthermore, this process should be inclusive and should prioritize meaningful, equitable participation of all impacted right holders, upholding Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC), which means incorporating waste pickers, waste workers, and fence-line communities throughout the project lifecycle, starting from the development planning stage.

 In his intervention, Weyinmi Okotie of GAIA, who spoke in company of other partners including Dr. Leslie Adogame of SRADev, Benson Dotun Fasanya of CFEW and Akpan Anthony of PAVE, among others  urged concerned citizens, environmental organizations and stakeholders to join the ‘critical fight’ for a cleaner, healthier Lagos and protect the environment for future generations.

 Describing the development as ‘a matter of great urgency’ Okotie said the Lagos State Government should avoid bequeathing a ‘toxic legacy’ on the state, adding: “We advocate a shift away from incineration towards a ‘zero waste’ approach. This means reducing waste at its source, composting organic materials, and maximizing recycling.

 “GAIA supports local efforts to implement these solutions and challenge policies that promote incineration. Our goal is a just and sustainable world where communities are empowered to manage waste responsibly and live in a healthy environment. In Nigeria, GAIA members comprise over 11 public interest NGOs and civil society groups spread across Nigeria but are in Lagos today in solidarity with its members.”

Also speaking, Adogame maintained that Lagos State should not adopt outdated technologies that are being phased out in the Global North, stressing that implementing a waste-to-energy incinerator in Lagos contradicts the city’s aspiration to be a leader in sustainability and innovation, especially with its growing interest and recognition in climate change advocacy.

 “If Lagos adopts this flawed approach, it sets a dangerous precedent for the rest of Nigeria and Africa. Moreover, a study by the University of Plymouth in 2012 found that a sea-level rise of three to nine feet (approximately 1 to 3 meters) would have catastrophic effects on human activities in Lagos, which has an average elevation of only 2 meters above sea level.

 “Adopting a waste-to-energy technology in such a vulnerable area will pose significant environmental and public health risks. Lagos State should focus on sustainable waste management practices that do not threaten its future or that of its residents. So we are encouraging Lagos State Government to continue to be a part of the climate solution and not part of the problem.”

 On his part, Dotun Fasanya, argued that waste incineration is the most expensive and least efficient way to generate energy, adding that investing between $150 million and $250 million in large, modern facilities designed by European companies might be lucrative for the companies but not for the host communities or the local government.

 Citing cases of failed incinerator projects worldwide, especially in the Netherlands; he said Waste-to-Energy Incineration emits toxic pollutants to the extent that the presence of any incinerator poses substantial risks to the health and environment of communities.

“Waste-to-energy incinerators contribute to climate change as incinerators emit higher levels of CO2 per megawatt-hour compared to coal, natural gas or oil power plants; undermines sustainable zero waste practices and takes away jobs as incinerators offer relatively few jobs when compared to recycling, while recycling creates 50 times more jobs than incineration and land filling.

“Waste-to-energy incineration constitutes environmental injustice. Globally, communities have fought against its facilities because they tend to be disproportionately located in low-income settlements with heavy burden on residents accompanied by high toxicity, accidents and noise pollution,” he stated.

 In his comment, Executive Director of Renevlyn Development Initiative (RDI), Philip Jakpor, said: “It is shocking that the Lagos State Government has doggedly chosen to adopt dirty technologies like the waste-to-energy incinerator plants that have become obsolete and already phased out in Europe and elsewhere instead of the cleaner renewable initiatives that safeguard jobs, preserve our environment and protect our climate.

“What the Lagos Government is embarking on is reflective of the confusion in our just energy transition journey at the state and federal levels. Over time, it has been one step forward and three or more steps backward.”

 Speaking virtually, CODAF’s Director of Campaigns and Administration, Maimoni Mariere Ubrei-Joe, expressed the coalition’s deep concern over the Lagos State Government’s planned waste-to-energy project.

 “In spite of our efforts to engage and dialogue with the state government, we have been met with grave silence in the last three weeks. Therefore, we chose to address our concerns through this national press conference.

“We firmly believe that the solution to waste management and climate change lies in reducing our addiction to waste, not in adopting incineration practices that will undermine human rights and environmental health. We urge the Lagos State Government to reconsider their approach and work with us towards achieving a more sustainable and equitable solution,” he said.

COMMUNITIES PLAYING HOST TO OIL PALM COMPANIES CRY OUT OVER INJUSTICE FROM COMPANIES

Oil Palm Producing Companies RSPO

The Community Development Advocacy Foundation (CODAF) organized a Community Roundtable for Sustainable Oil Palm (RSPO) with the theme, Human Rights and Environmental Concerns in Okomu Oil Palm Company (OOPC) RSPO-Certified Operations" in Edo State. The intent was to educate  affected communities on the content of the RSPO and how it can be utilized as a tool to hold OOPC accountable to the alleged Human Rights and Environmental Concerns emanating from their operations .

The event which held on the 12th and 13th of July 2024 had several communities from Ovia North East, Ovia South West and Uhunmwonde local government area, representatives from the Edo State ministry of Agriculture, civil society organizations, student environmental groups and other stakeholders in attendance.

The Director of Campaigns and Administration for CODAF,   Maimoni Mariere Ubrei-Joe, who facilitated the program, explained  how the RSPO principles and key criteria can be applied by local communities in holding oil palm plantations accountable. Reading out the principles of the document and how the rights of the people have been violated, in respect to the provisions of the RSPO document and its deliverables.

He exposed the community representatives to the content of the principles of the RSPO document which states that the company is expected to behave ethically and transparently, operate legally and respect rights, and also optimize productivity, efficiency, positive impacts and resilience.

Still explaining the principles of the RSPO, the Director highlighted the need for operating companies to deliver benefits to the community, respect their rights, to support smallholder inclusion, respect worker’s rights and to protect ecosystems.

He further stated that the purpose of the meeting is to bring community members up to speed on what the RSPO is about and how they can take advantage of it. According to him, there are so many palm oil industries who are RSPO certified but on the other hand, are breaching the principles that led to their certification. 

He added that, the program will bring to the attention of  palm oil companies who are RSPO certified to understand that their violations of local communities’ human rights and environmental concerns need to be addressed urgently, and this can be done through sensitizing the people and raising their voices to be able to file a complaint against these companies, using the RSPO as a tool for accountability.

In an experience sharing segment, the community representatives shared their experiences on the conducts of Okomu Oil Palm Company, complaining that their rights have been trampled upon on different levels, as people in host communities now live as slaves inI their own land.

Abdulahi Hajaratu who represented Uhunwonde local government area stated that there are several communities in the LGA that are affected by the activities of the OOPC.

“The company invaded many communities in my LGA and started grading without consulting the people. There was a protest by some of the communities. At the end of it all, they settled some youths and forgot about everything. They grabbed the land and started locking the gate. There is no road for us to pass. We have no freedom to go anywhere. There are people who have left their communities to other communities to rent a hectare of land for seventy thousand naira (#70,000) just to farm. We need the help of the government but the government is not assisting because the company pays tax and revenue to the local government. OOPC have caused problems within the community by settling people who conspire with them, while those who refused their bribe are enemies to the company.

Akpokiniovo Rex, who represented the Okomu community in Ovia South West LGA, stated that the Okomu Oil Palm Company has not been fair to the people.

“On the 4th of May 2022, we found   excavators and other equipment in our community. We asked them what was happening and they said they wanted to block that road for no reason. We cried out and came out peacefully to demonstrate. They used men of the Nigerian Police and other security agents to stop us. They shot one Mrs. Iyabo Botu, during the protest. After the incident, I went to the Police to report. There was no response from the government or OOPC. As a citizen of that place, if I go back home after 9pm, they will lock me out of my community because OOPC has fenced and barricaded all the access roads leading to our communities into their facilities (Okomu houses).”

Anthony Igharo who represented Odiguetue community in Ovia North East stated that the activities of OOPC oil have destroyed the lands in his community without any commensurate compensation.

“We cried to the OOPC office, but they said they had paid the money to one Mr. Tony Aneni. We moved to that man’s office and he paid us peanut money. When we went back to Okomu, they said they did not know us. When we go to speak for ourselves, you will see people who are bigger than us standing behind them. We have nothing to do in this situation. We didn’t really understand what the RSPO meant and how the company is supposed to conduct themselves in our community. They are doing some part of their duties in my community so you will hardly find anybody who will speak against them.”

Also speaking at the event the National Coordinator of Community Forest Watch, Sunday Ajele, stated that the Okomu Oil Palm Company has portrayed itself to be a responsible company but research will show that most of the company’s public statements are meant to provoke public empathy and the government is not ready to investigate.

“How do you expect a company that is paying twelve billion naira tax to the state to behave responsibly? If there is any complaint against the company, the government always protects the company, which enslaves the people they are supposed to protect. The testimonies of the communities are nothing but the truth but there is nobody to listen to them? When thy try to speak up, they send security agencies to arrest and harass them.”

According to him, it is difficult for the people to fight against the company because of their “divide-and-rule” tactics which have turned the people against one another. He added that the communities should come together to speak with one voice, while filing a complaint against the company according to the RSPO document.

While sharing similar experiences in Liberia and how the RSPO document can be used to seek justice, the Program Manager of Community Rights and Corporate Governance Program of Sustainable Development Institute/ Friends of the Earth Liberia, James Otto stated that the RSPO was designed to help communities fight against injustice and human rights abuses from Oil Palm companies.

Otto, pointed out that, the first step of utilizing the RSPO is for communities to gather information about the company, their shareholders and agencies/bodies backing them up, and the tactics they use to carry out their activities.. According to him, this information gathering will also help the community to gather evidence against the company, which will be relevant in fighting these corporations by filing a formal complaint to the RSPO against the company.

He further added that the companies are able to get away with their excesses because they seek out the youths and other available people as tools within the community to fight against the people. He admonished the community representatives to be united and to speak with one voice, as this is the only way to fight these companies.

The highlights of the event included a practical demonstration of the RSPO which demonstrated how disunity, greed, bribery and other vices can distort the process of utilizing the RSPO.

WHAT HOST COMMUNITIES SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THE PIA

Community Development Petroleum Industry Act Sensitization

Community Development Advocacy Foundation has called on host communities to stay informed about the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act and actively engage with relevant authorities to ensure that their interests are adequately represented and protected. 

CODAF'S A MILLION TREE SCHOOL PROJECT EMPOWERS FUTURE GENERATIONS WITH FREE NOTEBOOKS IN DELTA STATE

Environment / Youth Schools / A Million Tree Project

In line with its dedication to creating positive and sustainable impact within local communities, Community Development Advocacy Foundation (CODAF) has successfully distributed over 1000 free notebooks to school children in Ughelli North and Ughelli South local government areas of Delta State.

According to the Executive Director of CODAF, Richard Benin, the initiative is in line with the organization’s commitment to fostering education and community development, to alleviate the financial burden on families and ensure that every child has access to essential educational tools.

“Recognizing the pivotal role education plays in shaping a brighter future, CODAF aims to empower young minds, promote learning, and bridge educational disparities in the region. This initiative is a testament to CODAF's unwavering dedication to creating positive and sustainable impact within local communities.

By providing free notebooks to school children, CODAF aspires to inspire a love for learning, enhance educational opportunities, and contribute to the overall development and sustainability of the environment.”

The CODAF boss also expresses gratitude to its partners, (ACERD and NeDi) volunteers, and all stakeholders for their support, adding that the foundation remains committed to its mission of empowering communities through education and advocacy.

The schools that benefited from the free books initiative are; Ibru College, Afiesere secondary school, Otu Jeremi Secondary school, Sunnicity Group of schools and Omavovwe Secondary school. Mr Benin revealed that the next phase of the project will be the provision notebooks to schools in the riverine communities.

The A Million Tree Project is an initiative of CODAF, that encourages the young to pay attention to the beautification and health of the environment through the planting of trees.

WOMEN OF OTU-JEREMI COMMUNITY CALLS FOR AN END TO GAS FLARING AND FOSSIL FUEL EXTRACTION

"We want compensation for the damages to our environment"- Women of Otu-jeremi

CODAF AND OTHER GAIA NIGERIA MEMBERS CALLS FOR ACTION AGAINST SINGLE-USE

GAIA NIGERIA ADVOCATES FOR ZERO WASTE POLICY ACROSS NIGERIA

Webinar on the Transit to Zero Waste

GAIA Nigeria and other civil society organizations in environment have called on the public to embrace the opportunities of transiting to zero waste to save the planet. 

This was made known in a one-day webinar organized by Gaia Nigeria with the theme, Transiting to Zero Waste, Challenges and Opportunities.

In his introduction of the webinar, Program Manager of Environmental Rights Action/ Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN), Maimoni Ubrei-Joe stated that the webinar was organized to broaden the web of solutions around waste in the environment and to create awareness on zero waste. 

Also presenting the outcomes of the recent UN Plastics Treaty negotiation in Paris and the findings of the delegation of GAIA Nigeria, the Executive Director of Community Development Advocacy Foundation, Richard Benin revealed that the outcomes following  five days of negotiations  included an agreement to develop a zero draft treaty text for a future binding treaty on plastics, discuss on the 12 core obligations options for the new binding global plastic treaty, support by many governments for global measures to reduce plastic production, regulate the waste trade, ensure chemical transparency and ban single-use plastics

He added that the third round of negotiations will be held in Nairobi, Kenya in November 2023, the fourth round in Canada in April 2024, and then in South Korea in October 2024.

The first presentation on the challenge of Transiting to Zero Waste was given by the Executive Director of Sustainable Research and Action for Environmental Development (SRADeV), Dr Leslie Adogame who pointed out that Africa and Nigeria are far behind in entrenching the concept of zero waste while focusing on zero solutions. 

While speaking on the opportunities of transiting to Zero waste, the Executive Director of Center for Earth Work, Benson Dotun Fasanya opined that the concept of Zero waste can be transformed into a means of job creation to recover resources and to save the planet by putting an end to incineration. 

On his part, the Executive Director of ERA/FoEN, Barr. Chima Williams encouraged members of GAIA Nigeria to look inward to see how policies and ground activities can be expanded in various states to achieve a compendium of zero waste programs across Nigeria. 

The Program Officer of ERA/FoEN, Melody Enyinnaya gave a breakdown of the achievements and accomplishments of ERA and other organizations in their work to promote Zero waste.

The webinar had over 50 participants from the  coalition of 9 organizations which include Sustainable Research and Action for Environmental Development (SRADev), Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN), Pan African Vision for the Environment (PAVE), Centre for Earth Work (CFEW), Green Knowledge Foundation (GKF), Community Development Advocacy Foundation (CODAF), Policy Alert, Lekeh Development Foundation and Community Action Against Plastic Waste (CAPWs).

CODAF AND OTHER ORGANIZATIONS LEND THEIR VOICES ON ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES FACING COASTAL COMMUNITIES

World Ocean and World Environment Day Celebration in Forcados and Odimodi Communities in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State

In commemoration of the World Environment Day and World Ocean Day, Community Development Advocacy Foundation (CODAF also known as Rural Community Empowerment Initiative (RUCEI) has drawn attention to the dangers of plastic waste and its effect on the environment.

The Executive Director of CODAF, Richard Benin stated this during a Riverside Action and Environmental Campaigns in Forcados and Odimodi communities in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, to mark World Environment Day and World Ocean Day.  

Mr. Benin explained that plastic waste is growing to be one of the most disturbing issues bedevilling our planet as of today, as these products contains chemicals that are harmful to the environment and the people. He further stressed that, of the 450 million tons of plastics produced annually around the globe, only 9% is recircled and a sizeable amount of the remaining unrecycled ones find their way into our rivers and oceans which on the other hand have negative impacts on the ecosystems. He said it is important for individuals, cooperate organizations, CSOs, governments at all levels to come together to fight this menace and bequeath an environment in a better condition to our children, as we owe them that.

In his conversations with the people of Forcados and Odimodi communities respectively, he admonished the people to completely avoid or reduce the use of plastic to save their environment and to save mother earth. Speaking further, Mr. Benin, used the opportunity to call on the government to adopt and implement a comprehensive Zero waste plan that will address all forms of waste at the source of generation across all value chain and ban all single use plastics. 

Also speaking at both communities, the Executive Director of African Center for Environmental and Rural Development, Nowho Fred who partnered with CODAF on the environmental day action, stated that World Environmental Day is not just celebrated but a reminder that we need to pay attention to the environment, to save the earth for future generations. 

On her part, the Executive Director of Neferok Development Initiative, Nefertiti Ayo Okotie exposed that plastic waste accounts for 85% of Marine waste as about 11 Million metric tons of plastic goes into our ocean annually and is estimated to triple over the next 20 years. She advised that if we must survive staying on planet earth, then we must all join in the fight against plastic pollution.

Meanwhile, the people of Forcados and Odimodi have applauded the visit of CODAF and other partner organizations and the environmental messages that were brought to them. 

While discussing on the Environmental issues affecting the communities, the people of Forcados lamented that they have been neglected and long forgotten by the government and oil multinationals, despite the cries of crude oil spillages and flooding that is ravaging the community. 

Speaking to the CODAF media team, an indigene of Forcados, Engineer Jacob Diale stated that Forcados has the potential of being a well-developed community, as the Nigerian colonial administration was intentionally started in Forcados by the colonial masters. 

He however regretted that the glory of Forcados have been diverted to other parts of Nigeria, while the people have been abandoned in deep poverty by the government and the oil multinationals whose crude activities have destroyed the ecosystem and livelihood of the people. 

One of the women in the community, Evelyn Orijemi explained that the people have given up on farming because their farmlands have all gone under water, while crude oil has destroyed fishing activities of the people, adding that the people of Forcados are living in poverty and their community is being washed away by the sea. 

Another woman, Lucy Akinto who also spoke on the issue, complained that smoke and black oil from oil exploration activities is affecting the people of Forcados, yet no form of development has been seen in the community, stressing that the community does not have portable water, power supply or roads.

The Chairman of Forcados Community, Burutu Erekedowmini called on the appropriate authorities to intervene and save the people of Forcados from being wiped out from the world by the environmental issues plaguing their community. 

On their part, the women of Odimodi have applauded the advocacy and intervention of CODAF in Odimodi, as the efforts made have drawn the attention of Shell to their community.

The women who expressed their gratitude testified that after the visit of CODAF in January 2023 and the advocacy efforts made, Shell had introduced nine (9) new scholarship slots for the community and brought medical teams to examine and attend to the medical needs of the people. 

While they appreciated the efforts of Shell, they however appealed that rather than bringing occasional medical teams to the community, a standard hospital with trained doctors should be established permanently in Odimodi to attend to emergencies and other unforeseen medical needs of the people. 

They also requested for the introduction of adult education for the aged who still value education, and the provision of loans and grants to improve the standard of living in Odimodi.

The highlight of CODAF environmental day action in Forcados and Odimodi were riverside campaigns for the reduction of plastic waste and the need to save the coastal communities. 

The 5th and 8th of June are days set aside to celebrate World Environment and World Ocean days respectively.

CODAF and other CSOs Call on FG to Adopt Zero Waste Plan in Line with UN Plastic Treaty

Plastic Treaty

Webinar on Human and Ecological Rights

Looking at Human Rights Abuses caused by oil exploration activities in the Niger Delta.

Niger Delta Legal and Strategy Meeting for Fisher Folks

Communities affected by oil exploration activities

THE DYING CREEKS OF ODIMODI

A documentary

This documentary is about the people of Odimodi Community in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State who have been forced to live with the after effect of oil exploration activities and spills that have destroyed the lands and water surrounding the Odimodi people.

CODAF ORGANIZES CAPACITY BUILDING PROGRAM FOR THE WOMEN OF ODIMODI

Capacity Building Program on Human Rights Defence, Advocacy and Communication Skills

CRE PROJECT IN ODIMODI: COMMUNITY ENTRY

Courtesy Visit to the Vice Chairman of Odimodi COmmunity

As a beginner to the implementation of the Community Resource Exchange (CRE) Project in Odimodi community in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, CODAF team led by the Executive Director of CODAF, Richard Benin and other collaborating organizations, paid a courtesy visit to the Vice Chairman of Odimodi Community, Chief Isepagha Willie on Monday, the 16th of January 2023, to introduce the CRE project and the implementing team.

While receiving the delegation, Chief Willie assured the team of the community's support and collaboration in the implementation of the project.

Communique Issued at the end of the School of Governance organized by CODAF with focus on Waste Governance at Ughelli, Delta State

Waste Management

16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

Community Organizing against Land Grabbing” in Akwukwu-Igbo community

Community Action

A customized training manual was designed for this training. The manual provides a set of advocacy strategies and tools for Advocates in developing countries as well as rural communities in the Niger Delta, whose lands have been captured for palm oil plantations or for agro-commodities. Taking learners through the manual, Mr. Ubrei-Joe, M. Mariere of CODAF engaged learners to understand the meaning of land grabbing, why Africa and rural communities are usually the target of land grabbers and the Impacts of Land grabbing on indigenous people. He further examined the tactics Palm Oil Companies use to Grab community Lands and gave account of the lessons from other impacts in the Niger Delta, according to him, though these stories are not documented in the training manual but they are part of the trainers guide specially designed for the training.

Going further, he provided a background information on the use of advocacy as a tool against land grabbing, with a broad definition of advocacy, its purpose, strategies and tools. The participants were introduced to several advocacy questions community can ask to know more about the company in their communities were also documented. Concluding the training, the participants were exposed to selected human rights tools in advocating against land grabbing. The selected tools are Free Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC), Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), Health Impact Assessment, Social Impact Assessment, Community Needs Assessment.

Different reactions were received by the trainers and an Action plan was developed to attend to some of the reactions as documented below.

Reactions

1. The communities confirmed that they woke up one morning to see bulldozers and the presence of Military Officers in their farmlands and community forest to their shock they had lost their land to Norsworthy Investment Limited, a private firm prominent in Agro-business,
2. Women are generally seen as enemy of progress as they continued to resist all forms of human rights violation hence, they are seen as enemy of progress in the community by community leaders. They are however constantly being marginalized,
3. There was no Free Prior and Informed Consent and Environmental Impact Assessment conducted before the company took over their land,
4. The activities of Norsworthy Investment Limited has sown seed of discord among the communities as they remain divided while the company continue to reap more profit,
5. Individuals from different quarters in Akwukwu-Igbo that secured employment with the company, were only employed as casuals and non-professionals,
6. Since the arrival of Norsworthy Investment Limited in Akwukwu-Igbo, the community have not known peace amongst themselves due to the seed of discord that have been planted by the company,
7. Of what use is Norsworthy Investment Limited in Akwukwu-Igbo when the communities are devoid of development?
8. Since the existence of Norsworthy Investment Limited in Akwukwu-Igbo, the people have not positively felt their presence as they have not carried out a single cooperate social responsibility,
9. The marginalize groups (women, youth and excluded men) in the community are yet to know the content of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) the leadership of the community and Delta State Government entered into with Norsworthy Investment Limited, 

Action Plan

1. The 10 Associations mobilized to form an Umbrella body to be saddled with the responsibility of carrying out advocacy to protecting the rights of the Akwukwu-Igbo people and the environment before the end of October 2020,
2. Youth to organized an advocacy visit to key community leaders and the King in a bid to discussing and inquiry about their level of commitment and MOU the community entered with the Company to enable them to develop key demands which they would use to engage the company in their advocacy. This action is to be completed by early November 2020,
3. Leaders of the association trained to do step down training for their members within one week after the completion of the training and learning process.