This Friday, in Talatona, the “Waste Management Initiative – For Clean Oceans and Against Marine Litter” was officially launched. The pilot project aims to reduce plastic pollution, promote circular economy practices, and transform waste management in urban coastal areas.
The official ceremony, held in Benfica, marked the beginning of a partnership between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Angola, the Royal Norwegian Embassy, the Talatona Municipal Administration, and the National Waste Agency (ANR). The initiative is a response to the growing challenge of marine litter and inadequate solid waste management, issues that directly affect public health, the local economy, and ecosystems.
With potential to be replicated in other parts of the country, the project in Talatona will serve as a “laboratory of integrated solutions.” Planned measures include mapping sources and routes of plastic waste, introducing multi-container collection systems, and creating deposit centers that offer incentives to the population.
UNDP Resident Representative in Angola, Denise António, highlighted the inclusive nature of the initiative: “We are investing in community recycling workshops, training programs, and waste deposit centers that reward responsible disposal. We want every family to feel part of this transformation.”
Norwegian Ambassador to Angola, Bjørnar Dahl Hotvedt, emphasized the shared commitment of the two nations to marine sustainability: “Norway and Angola are maritime nations, and the seas play a fundamental role in the lives of our peoples. We must act urgently, because threats to marine life are also threats to human life.”
The Talatona Municipal Administration reinforced the project’s local importance, seeing it as an opportunity for job creation and the strengthening of environmental citizenship. “Fighting marine litter is also an investment in the future of the next generations,” said Municipal Administrator Sandra Batalha.
The launch event brought together representatives of the Government, development partners, United Nations agencies, the private sector, community organizations, and the media.
09/12/2025
