Namibia: Glass Project On the Roll

The new glass project initiative comes after the idea was introduced to Prime Minister Nahas Angula in October last year, when various stakeholders and businesses pledged their support for the idea of turning waste into economical value.At the time the Prime Minister was of the opinion that such a development was commendable as it would go a long way in addressing poverty, unemployment among the youth and clearing up the environment that is littered with bottles.Now, six months later the idea to use the latest Swedish-based technology to produce various glass products from used bottles has become a reality.Local students of the John Muafangejo Art Centre (JMAC) showcased the products to the public.

Well-known local visual artist Ndasuunje Shikongeni together with his Swedish colleague and founder of the technology Leif Hauge have now started the project of converting used bottles into valuable products that can be sold for a living.

A group of six students has been trained so far, while the number would be increased during the next two weeks. Similar training will also be offered in Ondangwa, while interested youngsters will undergo exchange workshops in Sweden at a later stage.

The aim is essentially for young people to collect broken beer and soft drink bottles found scattered around the country and turn them into something useful for the community.

Launching the project yesterday, the Deputy Minister of Youth, National Service, Sport and Culture Pohamba Shifeta said such technology should be supported in an effort to not only add value to waste material, but at the same time to provide employment.

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