By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian
The German Africa Foundation has honored Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, the mayor of Freetown, Sierra Leone, with the 2024 German Africa Prize, recognizing her as an “inspiration” for her innovative sustainability initiatives in the capital over the past six years.
Aki-Sawyerr, often referred to as a powerhouse, has implemented numerous improvements, transforming Freetown into a model for urban sustainability. Her administration has established a liquid waste processing system featuring 160 water storage tanks and rainwater collection systems, alongside extensive flood protection measures. Additionally, waste from toilets is converted into compost, biogas, and heating briquettes, thereby reducing the need for deforestation for cooking fuel.
Improvements to Freetown’s water supply include the installation of solar-powered purification systems at water kiosks, providing clean water access to many communities for the first time. This initiative not only empowers young women to run their own businesses but also mitigates the risk of sexual assault while they collect water.
Commitment to Sustainable Urban Development
The German Africa Foundation commends Aki-Sawyerr’s unwavering dedication to sustainable urban development and local participation. They note that her vision for a “just, sustainable city worth living in” far exceeds the expectations of her office.
Born in Sierra Leone and having lived in Ghana and Canada, Aki-Sawyerr returned to her homeland after a successful career as a financial expert in London, which began with her commitment during the Ebola crisis in 2014-2015. She was reelected for a second term in June 2023.
A Model for Political Leadership
The foundation describes Aki-Sawyerr as a role model for local politicians across Africa, particularly in fostering sustainable resident participation in decision-making. Her long-term development plan, “Transform Freetown — Transforming Lives,” exemplifies her approach, involving business representatives and civil society in its creation.
“By focusing on jobs in green and productive sectors, we will boost economic growth and create prosperity for future generations,” Aki-Sawyerr emphasized.
Innovative Solutions for Urban Challenges
Aki-Sawyerr has also made strides in the transportation sector, commissioning a feasibility study for a ropeway system in Freetown to alleviate traffic congestion and air pollution. This project promises to improve connectivity for poorly linked neighborhoods, providing residents quicker access to central areas while offering scenic views of the natural landscape. Her initiative, #FreetownTheTreeTown, aims to plant 977,000 new trees to combat climate change and protect surrounding forests while creating income opportunities for residents.
Recognition and Upcoming Ceremony
“I am happy and deeply honored,” Aki-Sawyerr stated following the announcement. “I accept this award on behalf of my entire team and the people of Freetown, who are dedicated to transforming our city.”
The award ceremony will take place on October 16 in Berlin, where Bärbel Bas, President of the Bundestag, will present the prize. Selected by an independent jury, Aki-Sawyerr was chosen from over two dozen candidates for this prestigious recognition, which has honored outstanding contributions to democracy, peace, human rights, and sustainable development in Africa since 1993.
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