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The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria has called on African nations to take decisive action to reduce their carbon footprint while addressing critical socioeconomic challenges that hinder sustainable development.
Speaking during a live webinar on Friday, titled, “Ensuring Just Enforcement of Carbon Footprint Emissions: A Call to Action”, the Director General of MAN, Segun Ajayi-Kadir, emphasised the urgency of a united response across the continent.
“It is imperative that we take swift and deliberate action to reduce our carbon footprint and ensure sustainability. The narrative on the continent of Africa presents very unique challenges that demand tailored solutions designed to meet our specific needs,” Ajayi-Kadir stated.
He further highlighted the socioeconomic challenges plaguing African countries, which must be addressed alongside environmental concerns.
He urged governments across the continent to support manufacturers in their efforts to achieve environmental sustainability.
Ajayi-Kadir also stressed the need for collaboration and knowledge-sharing to develop solutions that would allow African industries to thrive while reducing their environmental impact.
He said, “It is also important not to lose sight of the pressing socioeconomic challenges, such as unemployment, energy poverty, and low technology penetration, that impede our development as a continent. These issues cannot be divorced from our sustainability agenda.
“This webinar is an opportunity for us to come together, share knowledge and best practices, and collaborate on solutions to address carbon emissions in our industry. It is a call to action for all of us to take responsibility for our impact on the environment and work towards a cleaner, greener future.
“Just as we, as manufacturers, are investing heavily in a circular economy, water stewardship, and recycling, we urge the government to put in place workable policies that will complement our efforts at ensuring sustainability in the environment without killing our businesses.”
Ajayi-Kadir concluded by encouraging active participation and engagement, stressing that sustainable solutions should not come at the cost of Africa’s economic growth.
“Together, we can make a difference and ensure that we are doing our part to protect the planet for future generations without jeopardizing our survival today. Let’s work together to ensure a just enforcement of carbon footprint emissions.”
The webinar provided a platform for industry leaders and policymakers to discuss how African nations can strike a balance between environmental sustainability and economic growth, a key challenge for the continent moving forward.
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