title: UN Minusca mission brings innovative solution to waste in troubled Central African Republic
subtitle: Despite ongoing conflict and instability, the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) has launched an innovative waste management initiative, providing vital services to conflict-affected communities.
Bambari, Central African Republic – The Central African Republic has been gripped by conflict for the better part of the last decade, leaving much of its infrastructure in ruins and its communities struggling to cope with the aftermath. The United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), in partnership with local authorities, has provided a much-needed solution to the region with the introduction of a single waste management system.
A vital service in conflict-affected areas
For many of the more than 600,000 internally displaced people in the Central African Republic, accessing even the most basic services can be difficult. Sanitation and hygiene are crucial necessities, especially in densely populated displacement sites. Minusca recognized the urgent need to provide sustainable sanitation solutions and took proactive steps to address the problem.
"Our mission established a garbage collection system to ensure public health and prevent outbreaks in IDP sites and densely populated urban centers." explained General Le Riche, head of mission support for MINUSCA. "Innovative solutions such as compost latrines are being implemented, turning waste into fertilizer for gardening and planting, allowing residents to harvest their own organic produce in a controlled manner."
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As part of this initiative, Minusca not only equipped waste collection facilities, but also established water and sanitation networks, installed hand washing stations in IDP camps and introduced hygiene promotion materials. A comprehensive community awareness plan was also implemented, educating local communities on personal hygiene, menstrual hygiene and waste disposal, ensuring that individuals understand the risks associated with poor waste management .
This innovative waste management solution brings many benefits, including cleaner living conditions for displaced and local populations. The health risks associated with poor waste management, particularly in contexts where basic amenities are difficult to find, cannot be overstated. Additionally, by effectively controlling waste, communities benefit from a fresh start and greater resilience.
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