Jumoke Olowookere, a U.S. Government Exchange alumna, has founded Nigerian’s first waste museum and upcycling training centre with the support of the United States Africa Development Foundation.

In a statement on Thursday, the U.S. consulate said the waste museum will provide environmental education and equip women and youth with upcycling skills and opportunities.   

Speaking at the opening ceremony in Ibadan, Ms Olowookere highlighted the importance of finding creative and productive ways to create employment by turning waste into valuable products.  

She explained that her overall objectives of establishing the Waste Museum is to protect the environment from degradation and support the expansion of sustainable upcycling businesses in Nigeria.    

“Environmental risk factors of indiscriminate disposal of waste and the rising pile of garbage in our cities are huge. With the Waste Museum, we are showcasing the value of waste,” Ms Olowookere said.     

“We want people to see how waste can be turned into wealth. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that no waste goes into the landfill –– a zero waste future is possible.”    

The U.S. Consulate Deputy Public Affairs Officer Jennifer Foltz praised Ms Olowookere for raising awareness among the youth and encouraging the community members to take the lead and be part of a climate solution.  

She said that the U.S. government will continue to support efforts aimed at encouraging increased and improved upcycling and recycling in Nigeria.   

“Today, we are celebrating the opening of the Waste Museum as it creatively and sustainably addresses two societal challenges —unemployment and waste management.” Ms Foltz said.  

Ms Foltz reiterated the U.S. government’s commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs in Nigeria, adding that the U.S. believes in women empowerment.

The project was funded by the U.S. State Department’s Exchange Alumni under the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs initiative which provides funding for women entrepreneurs worldwide.