LASEPA, firm collaborate to train local women in new fish-smoking technique
… Installs 2 kilns fish smoking machine to build capacity
In effort to enhance air quality and promote sustainable environmental practices, the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), in collaboration with RDD Associates, has organised a Capacity Building and Training session for 20 women on the use of smokeless kilns for fish smoking in Ago-Egun, Ilaje-Bariga Fishing Community.
The event witnessed the participation of the Asejere Fish Smoking Women Group towards building capacity and achieving improved air quality and sustainable economic growth.
LASEPA’s General Manager, Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, represented by the Head of Air Quality and Emissions Unit, Mrs. Ayodele Osho, highlighted the agency’s efforts to monitor and address air quality issues across Lagos State.
Ajayi emphasised the long-term benefits of the project, saying, “This initiative showcases how environmental sustainability and economic empowerment can coexist. By adopting cleaner fish-smoking methods, we protect community health through improved quality air, while enhancing their economic prospects.”
He further stated that the new smokeless (Kilns) oven can smoke between 7-8 cartons of fish at a go thus building the capacity of local fish businesses while reducing emissions to the barest minimum.
Despite initial resistance due to preferences for the brownish colour of fish smoked using sawdust, the LASEPA boss said his agency is partnering with RDD Associates to actively engage the community in training and public awareness campaigns.
The General Manager, who commended the consultant on the job, RDD Associates for delivering a quality job, noted that the feedback from the administered questionnaires and responses from the community indicated a growing awareness of the health risks associated with traditional smoking methods and a willingness to embrace the new, cleaner technology.
Representative of the Baale of Ago Egun-llaje Community, Mr. Felix Joseph expressed gratitude to LASEPA and RDD Associates for their efforts, noting the project’s potential to improve living conditions while preserving the community’s traditional livelihoods.
