Globacom, a leading telecommunications company in Nigeria, through its corporate social responsibility arm, the Glo Foundation, partnered with the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) to organize an empowerment program for approximately 1,000 street sweepers in Lagos State. This initiative aimed to recognize and reward the diligent work of these often-overlooked individuals who contribute significantly to maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of the state. The event, held on a Saturday, served as a platform to acknowledge the sweepers’ dedication and the inherent risks associated with their profession.
The Head of Glo Foundation, Jumobi Mofe-Damijo, underscored the significance of the program, highlighting the crucial role street sweepers play in keeping Lagos clean. She acknowledged the challenges they face, including potential hazards from reckless drivers and the often-unappreciated nature of their work. The event served as a gesture of appreciation, demonstrating Globacom’s recognition of the sweepers’ invaluable contributions to public health and the overall well-being of Lagos residents. The initiative is set to be replicated in other states across the country, further amplifying the message of appreciation and recognition for these essential workers.
Beyond the immediate recognition, the Glo Foundation outlined plans to empower the sweepers with valuable skills to enhance their income-generating potential. This holistic approach aims to provide the sweepers with opportunities beyond their current roles, creating pathways for personal and professional growth. The planned training programs encompass diverse areas, including fashion design, jewelry making, fabric embellishment, beading, baking, and digital skills. These skill-building initiatives aim to equip the sweepers with the necessary tools to improve their livelihoods and contribute more effectively to their communities.
The Managing Director of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, praised Globacom for its initiative, emphasizing the importance of such collaborative efforts in supporting and motivating street sweepers. He reiterated the vital role these workers play in maintaining a healthy environment and called upon other corporate organizations to emulate Globacom’s gesture. This collaborative spirit between private sector entities and government agencies signifies a shared commitment to improving the lives of essential workers and fostering a cleaner, healthier environment for all citizens.
The empowerment program was met with gratitude and enthusiasm by the sweepers themselves. Aniekwe Ifeoma, one of the beneficiaries, shared how working with LAWMA had provided her with self-improvement opportunities and additional income streams. She highlighted her ongoing computer literacy training and her entrepreneurial efforts in selling Zobo and Tigernut drinks during her free time. Ifeoma’s story exemplifies the positive impact such programs can have on individuals, empowering them to acquire new skills, diversify their income sources, and enhance their personal and professional development.
Another sweeper, Awolaja Esther, expressed optimism about the long-term benefits of the program, particularly its potential to empower the workers. She expressed her gratitude to the Glo Foundation for their generous support and recognition. The positive feedback from the sweepers themselves reinforces the significance of such initiatives and their potential to create meaningful change in the lives of individuals who often go unnoticed despite their crucial contributions to society. The Glo Foundation’s commitment to empowering these workers not only acknowledges their essential role but also contributes to their overall wellbeing and future prospects. This initiative sets a precedent for other corporations to follow, demonstrating the powerful impact of public-private partnerships in uplifting communities and recognizing the unsung heroes who contribute significantly to our daily lives.
