The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) has trained 50 women and youths in Eredo Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Epe, on recycling water hyacinth into marketable products.
The Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Blue Economy, Mr Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, said the training, carried out in partnership with social enterprise Mitimeth, ran for five days and aimed to spark creativity while promoting environmental responsibility.
“It provided hands-on skills to transform invasive water hyacinth into innovative and marketable products, tackling pollution while opening new economic avenues,” Emmanuel said.
Participants learned techniques in harvesting, processing, and recycling water hyacinth. The training also included sessions on safety practices, entrepreneurship, and sustainable environmental care.
Emmanuel highlighted that LASWA is committed to pioneering solutions that enhance waterway safety, protect ecosystems, and empower local communities. “Turning a troublesome plant into a source of income aligns perfectly with Lagos’s vision for sustainability, job creation, and inclusive growth,” he added.
The trainees showcased their recycled products and expressed plans to form cooperatives and micro-enterprises, paving the way for lasting economic empowerment.
Emmanuel quoted Mr Monsuru Akinloye, Executive Chairman of Eredo LCDA, praising LASWA for the impactful programme, which he said would help reduce water hyacinth problems while equipping women and youths with valuable skills.
LASWA has trained over 450 women and youths across riverine areas in Lagos on water hyacinth recycling.