MTN Nigeria, in collaboration with the Nigeria Conservation Foundation (NCF) and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), has announced Osarode Stephen Odemwingie as the winner of the 2024 Nigeria PachiPanda Challenge for his innovative biorefinery solution, which transforms fruit, vegetable, and chicken feather waste into nutrient-rich farming supplements. His project, which aims to tackle waste management while creating employment opportunities for young people, will represent Nigeria at the Africa-wide PachiPanda Finals in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Odemwingie’s solution, which produces “Organo-brine” and “Organo-sludge” supplements used in mushroom cultivation, was selected for its potential to reduce environmental waste and foster sustainable agriculture. By diverting organic waste from landfills and burning, his innovation offers a scalable model for tackling waste disposal issues while providing new jobs in the organic recycling and mushroom farming industries.
“Osarode’s biorefinery project demonstrates the power of young minds to drive positive change,” said Tobe Okigbo, Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, MTN Nigeria. “We are thrilled to support his journey and believe he will make Nigeria proud on the continental stage.”
The PachiPanda Challenge attracted 1,643 submissions, with 10 finalists chosen to present their projects to a panel of industry experts at MTN’s headquarters in Lagos from November 4-6. Alongside Odemwingie, second-place honors went to Olabisi Rafatu Emmanuel for her reusable menstrual product solution, while Team Sparkwise Initiative, comprising Ebenezer Otito Anyadiegwu, Julius Oluwaleke, and Egbeyale Omobonike, took third place for their work in creating household appliances from e-waste. Cash prizes of N3,000,000, N2,000,000, and N1,500,000 were awarded to the top three finalists, respectively.
Dr. Joseph Onoja, Director-General of the NCF, commended Odemwingie’s project, noting that it not only addresses an environmental issue but also offers a scalable solution to waste management and food security.
The Africa-wide PachiPanda Finals will bring together top innovators from across the continent, where the ultimate winner will receive a grand prize and comprehensive support to further develop and scale their solution.
For more updates on the Africa PachiPanda Challenge and Odemwingie’s journey, follow MTN Nigeria on social media or visit www.mtn.ng. Queries can be directed to MTN Nigeria’s Sustainability and Shared Value Team at sustainability.ng@mtn.com.
