Promoting a Healthier Environment through Proper Waste Management

Ashoka Fellow, Lagos, Nigeria

Concerned about the health and environmental issues created by the absence of public toilets in most Nigerian cities, Isaac Durojaiye launched the country's first portable toilet initiative. In Nigeria, most public places have no toilet facilities, worsening the already heavily polluted waters, as the improper disposal of human waste filters directly into the waterways, rivers, and seas. As many Nigerians rely directly on unfiltered water for cooking, drinking, and washing, the waterways only add to the spread of infectious diseases such as dysentery and cholera. Contaminated drinking water and unsanitary means of waste disposal are closely associated with diarrheal diseases - the second biggest cause of childhood death in Nigeria. DMT locally manufactures toilets and then leases them to community members who in turn charge a jobless youth to maintain the toilets. The youth then earn a percentage of the toilet's revenue in exchange for its maintenance. By providing toilets, DMT promotes a healthier environment by simultaneously educating the community on the importance of proper waste disposal as well as providing a viable alternative to street side waste practices. DMT's system results in a healthier, more dignified environment throughout Nigeria, and stimulates the economy by creating hundreds of jobs. DMT provides a necessary public service by fulfilling a compelling community need.

Speech Topics:

• Sanitation/Waste Management
• Healthy Environment