Members of Join Me Today – UEW Campus Chapter recently carried out their second market outreach initiative, reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to raising awareness about sustainable waste management within local communities. The outreach brought the team directly into the marketplace of Winneba central market, where they engaged traders, shoppers, and community members in conversations about responsible waste disposal and the importance of keeping the environment clean.
Winneba central market is a vibrant space where economic activity thrives, but also produces significant amount of waste. Recognizing this challenge, Join Me Today UEW chapter, led by the campus President, Mr. Alhassan Mutawakil, took the opportunity to share practical knowledge on proper waste disposal, recycling practices, and simple everyday actions that can help reduce environmental pollution.
Engaging the Market Community
Through open discussions, demonstrations, and interactive engagement, the team encouraged traders to adopt simple but effective waste management habits in their daily activities. The conversations focused on how improper waste disposal—particularly plastic waste—can negatively impact sanitation, public health, and the overall appearance of the market.
The team used educational charts and visual materials to explain the environmental and social impacts of poor waste management. Traders were able to ask questions, share their experiences, and discuss possible ways to improve sanitation practices within the market.
Observations from the Outreach
During the outreach, the team observed that plastic waste continues to be disposed of indiscriminately, often finding its way into nearby drains. This practice has contributed to blocked drainage systems, which in turn increases the risk of surface runoff and localized flooding during heavy rainfall.
Such environmental challenges not only affect sanitation but also disrupt market activities and pose risks to the health and safety of traders and customers. These observations further highlighted the need for continuous community education and improved waste management systems.
Traders Call for Institutional Support
Traders who participated in the engagement also expressed their concerns and made an appeal to municipal authorities, non-governmental organizations, and development partners. Many highlighted the urgent need for waste bins and improved waste collection systems, which would make it easier for traders and shoppers to dispose of waste properly. Providing such basic infrastructure, they noted, would significantly improve sanitation and reduce the environmental challenges currently affecting the market.
A Call for Partnership
Join Me Today believes that sustainable environmental change requires collective action and strong partnerships. The organization therefore calls on donors, corporate sponsors, development partners, and the municipality to support ongoing community-led initiatives that promote responsible waste management. Support in the form of waste bins, sanitation infrastructure, educational materials, and logistical assistance can greatly strengthen these efforts and help create lasting impact. By working together, we can transform our marketplaces into cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable spaces for everyone. Join Me Today remains committed to empowering communities through education, collaboration, and environmental action, ensuring that sustainability becomes a shared responsibility and a daily practice.
