WACT Donates Solar Power Systems to Health Centres in Rivers

The West Africa Container Terminal (WACT)-APM Terminals Nigeria has donated and commissioned multi-million naira solar power systems to two Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) in its host communities of Onne and Ogu in Rivers State. The initiative aims to tackle the persistent issue of power outages and enhance healthcare delivery in the region.

The solar power installations were provided to the Model Primary Health Care Centre in Onne, Eleme Local Government Area, and the Model Primary Health Care Centre in Ogu, Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area. This project is set to improve healthcare access for over 25,000 households in these communities.

At the commissioning ceremony, Frederik Klinke, the Chief Executive Officer of APM Terminals Nigeria, highlighted the company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and emphasized its dedication to addressing the needs of the local communities where it operates.

“This initiative is central to what we stand for as a company. While our core business involves container handling and facilitating trade, we view ourselves as partners with the communities and governments in the regions where we operate. This project is part of our commitment to give back and make a positive impact on the communities we serve,” Klinke said.

He also emphasized that health and education are key pillars of APM Terminals’ global CSR strategy. “Improving the general health of the communities around us, especially the women, is crucial for their economic empowerment. This solar power project is a pilot, and we plan to expand such initiatives to make an even greater societal impact,” Klinke added.

Jeethu Jose, the Managing Director of WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria, also expressed the company’s dedication to supporting its host communities. “Primary healthcare is the backbone of any community. Strengthening these centres reduces the pressure on secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities. Access to reliable power is a basic necessity, and we are committed to long-term partnerships with the community for sustainable growth and development,” Jose said.

The decision to implement solar power systems was based on a needs assessment conducted in Onne and Ogu. According to Justin Okwuofu, WACT-APM Terminals’ Community Relations Manager, the assessment revealed that a dependable power supply was the most pressing requirement for the health centres.

Local leaders and government officials commended the initiative. Dr. Okachi Chukwuma, representing the Rivers State Primary Health Care Management Board, praised WACT-APM Terminals for aligning with the state government’s vision for improving primary healthcare. Barrister Christians Tamunobereton-ari, Vice-Chairman of Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area, also expressed gratitude for the solar installations, stating, “This power system is the most critical need for this facility. It will help our nurses and doctors work more efficiently.”

WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria remains committed to supporting initiatives in health, education, training, empowerment, and the environment, as part of its ongoing mission to uplift communities and enhance the quality of life in its operational areas.