NNA - Japanese Ambassador to Lebanon, MAGOSHI Masayuki, attended virtually the hand-over of solid waste collection vehicles ceremony to celebrate the completion of the project in the Caza of Baalbek, Baalbek-Hermel, benefiting the villages of Nabi Chit and Sareen Tahta. The project was supported through the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP). The event was attended by Mr. Hassan Moussawi, Mayor of Nabishit. Mr. Ali Chokr, Head of the Union of Eastern Baalbek Municipalities. Sheikh Mahdi Mostafa, Municipal Work Representative and Dr. Ramy Lakkis, General Manager of the Lebanese Organization for Studies and Training (LOST).
In the Nabi Chit and Sareen Tahta villages, in particular, the financial challenges have been curtailing solid waste management efforts, and limiting waste collection, posing grave health and environmental concerns for thousands of residents. Through this initiative, Japan will empower through the Lebanese Organization for Studies and Training (LOST) the municipal capacities in the two villages, by enhancing waste collection services, hence improving the living and health conditions of approximately 30,000 inhabitants.
Ambassador Magoshi emphasized Japan’s dedication to fostering sustainable waste management solutions in Lebanon, focusing on enhancing the capacity of local authorities in waste collection and the crucial role of community involvement. In response, Mr. Haassan Moussawi extended his thanks to the Japanese government and praised the support provided by the LOST during Lebanon’s current economic hardships. Mr. Ali Chokor highlighted the vital importance of integrating sustainability and development in the region and called for increased collaboration in these areas, expressing gratitude for Japan’s ongoing support. Dr. Lakkis conveyed profound appreciation for Japan’s assistance, noting the significant aid provided to Baalbek both in the past and currently contributed to advancing sustainable solutions. He underscored the importance of continuing this partnership to effectively address the significant challenges facing Lebanon.