The West Africa Container Terminal Nigeria (WACT-APM Terminals), a prominent container handling facility operating in Rivers State, Nigeria, has embarked on a significant initiative to bolster primary healthcare services within its host communities. Recognizing the critical role of accessible and quality healthcare in community development, WACT-APM Terminals has undertaken the installation of solar power systems in two Model Primary Health Care Centres, one located in Onne, Eleme Local Government Area, and the other in Ogu, Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area. This initiative aims to directly address the pervasive challenge of erratic power supply, a major impediment to effective healthcare delivery in these areas. The project, which is projected to benefit over 25,000 households, underscores WACT-APM Terminals’ commitment to corporate social responsibility and its dedication to fostering sustainable development within its operational sphere.
The decision to invest in solar power systems for these healthcare facilities stems from a thorough needs assessment conducted by WACT-APM Terminals within its host communities. This assessment revealed that the lack of reliable electricity was a critical bottleneck hindering the optimal functioning of the healthcare centers. By providing a consistent and sustainable power source, the solar installations are poised to significantly enhance the capacity of these centers to deliver essential medical services. This intervention will enable the centers to operate vital medical equipment, maintain proper storage of medicines and vaccines, and provide adequate lighting for both staff and patients, thereby ensuring a more conducive and efficient healthcare environment. The improved functionality will contribute to better diagnosis, treatment, and overall healthcare outcomes for the community members.
The commissioning of the solar power systems was marked by a ceremony attended by key stakeholders, including community representatives and senior management from WACT-APM Terminals. Frederik Klinke, the Chief Executive Officer of APM Terminals Nigeria, emphasized the company’s unwavering dedication to corporate social responsibility and its commitment to aligning its initiatives with the genuine needs of the communities it serves. He highlighted that the project exemplifies the company’s core values and its belief in fostering mutually beneficial partnerships with local communities and governments. While acknowledging the company’s primary business focus on container handling and trade facilitation, Klinke stressed the importance of extending their contributions beyond their core operations to make a tangible difference in the lives of the people in their operational areas.
Klinke further elaborated on APM Terminals’ global CSR strategy, emphasizing health and education as the two fundamental pillars of their community engagement efforts. He underscored the crucial link between improved health outcomes, particularly for women, and the overall economic empowerment of communities. By investing in primary healthcare, WACT-APM Terminals aims to create a ripple effect that positively impacts the socio-economic fabric of the communities. The solar power project has been designed as a pilot initiative, with the company expressing its intention to expand similar projects to other communities in the future, thereby broadening the scope and impact of their CSR interventions. This strategic approach demonstrates a long-term vision for community development, focusing on sustainable solutions that address fundamental needs.
Jeethu Jose, the Managing Director of WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria, echoed the company’s commitment to improving the lives of its host communities. He emphasized the vital role of primary healthcare as the foundation of a healthy community and highlighted the positive cascading effect that strengthened primary healthcare centers have on reducing the burden on secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities. By bolstering primary healthcare services, WACT-APM Terminals aims to create a more efficient and accessible healthcare system that benefits all members of the community. Jose reiterated the company’s dedication to forging strong partnerships with the community and contributing to long-term growth and progress. This collaborative approach ensures that initiatives are aligned with community needs and fosters a sense of shared ownership and responsibility.
The provision of reliable electricity to these healthcare centers represents a significant step towards addressing a critical infrastructure gap and enhancing the quality of life for residents in Onne and Ogu communities. By investing in sustainable energy solutions, WACT-APM Terminals is not only improving healthcare delivery but also contributing to environmental sustainability. This multifaceted approach to community development showcases the company’s commitment to responsible corporate citizenship and its dedication to creating a positive impact on the communities where it operates. The success of this pilot project lays the groundwork for future expansions and reinforces the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing critical developmental challenges. This initiative serves as a model for other corporate entities, demonstrating how businesses can play a pivotal role in promoting sustainable development and enhancing the well-being of communities.
