The Rural Women Energy Security (RUWES) Initiative participated in the commemoration
of International Zero Waste Day 2026, held on 2 April 2026 at the Abuja Continental Hotel.
The event, themed “Food Waste Reduction, Minimization and Valorization,” was organized
by the Federal Ministry of Environment in partnership with the European Union (EU) and
the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).
The event brought together key stakeholders from government, development organizations, academia, the private sector, and civil society to explore innovative approaches for reducing food waste, promoting resource efficiency, and advancing circular economy solutions.
A key highlight of the event was the contribution of Mrs. Jumaima Ella, Head of Secretariat
of the Rural Women Energy Security (RUWES) Initiative, who shared RUWES’ practical
experiences in transforming food waste into sustainable energy solutions. During her
presentation, she highlighted the organization’s ongoing intervention at the Orange Market in Nasarawa State, where significant quantities of fruit and agricultural waste are generated daily.
Mrs. Ella explained how RUWES has successfully developed and deployed biogas systems
within the market, converting organic waste into clean and renewable energy for cooking and other productive uses. The initiative not only helps to reduce environmental pollution and greenhouse gas emissions but also creates economic opportunities and improves access to affordable energy for rural women and vulnerable communities.
Her presentation underscored the importance of community-driven and scalable solutions in addressing food waste challenges while contributing to climate action, sustainable
livelihoods, and the transition to a circular economy.
RUWES remains committed to promoting innovative waste-to-energy solutions that
empower rural women, enhance environmental sustainability, and support Nigeria’s efforts
toward achieving a zero-waste future.
