The Cameroon Beach Clean-Up 2025, organised by the Cameroon Youth Assembly (CYA) and ASCOA, took place recently at Down Beach Limbe. The event intended to promote sustainable waste management practices, raise awareness about the importance of conserving marine life, and encourage community involvement in beach clean-up initiatives.
The event was held in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 14, which focuses on conserving and sustainably using the world’s oceans, seas, and marine resources. The goal emphasises the need to reduce marine pollution, protect marine ecosystems, and promote sustainable fishing practices.
Delikate Clothing, a sustainable clothing and accessories brand, partnered with the organisers to showcase the potential of upcycling and repurposing waste materials into wearable art. The brand’s founder, Nicnoela Nguatem Fonge, debuted six stunning outfits made from recycled materials, including plastic bottles, old mosquito nets, and research papers.
The outfits, which included “The Family Ties Nylon Dress,” “The Partnership Plastic Bottle Dress,” and “The Research Paper Dress,” highlighted the creative possibilities of upcycling and challenged attendees to rethink their relationship with waste.
“We want to show that waste can be transformed into something beautiful and valuable,” said Fonge. “Our goal is to promote sustainable living and raise awareness about the impact of human activities on the environment.”
The event, which attracted over 300 participants, included beach clean-up, waste sorting, and a musical performance by Cameroonian artist Salatiel. Volunteers collected and sorted waste into different categories, including plastics, glass, and organic materials.
Delikate Clothing design made from waste materials
According to the United Nations, marine pollution is a major concern, with millions of tons of plastic waste entering the world’s oceans every year. This pollution harms marine life, contaminates the food chain, and affects human health.
In Cameroon, beach pollution is a significant issue, with many beaches littered with plastic waste, fishing nets, and other debris. The Cameroon Beach Clean-Up 2025 aimed to raise awareness about this issue and encourage community involvement in beach clean-up initiatives.
Delikate Clothing’s participation in the event demonstrated the brand’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. As a pioneer in the sustainable fashion industry in Cameroon, Delikate Clothing continues to inspire and educate consumers about the importance of environmentally responsible practices.
“Sustainable fashion is not just about using eco-friendly materials; it’s also about reducing waste, promoting fair labour practices, and encouraging consumers to think differently about fashion,” said Fonge.
The success of the Cameroon Beach Clean Up 2025 has paved the way for future collaborations and initiatives aimed at promoting sustainability and environmental conservation in Cameroon. Delikate Clothing and its partners plan to continue promoting sustainable practices and raising awareness about the importance of protecting the environment.
As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change, sustainable fashion, and environmental conservation, events like the Cameroon Beach Clean-Up 2025 serve as a reminder of the importance of community involvement and collective action in promoting positive change.
By Andrew Nsoseka
