ABOUT THE MILLENNIUM FELLOWSHIP - CLASS OF 2023
United Nations Academic Impact and MCN are proud to partner on the Millennium Fellowship. 44,000+ student leaders from 3,300+ campuses across 170+ nations applied to join the Class of 2023. 260+ campuses worldwide (just 9%) in 38 countries were selected to host 4,000+ Millennium Fellows for the Class of 2023.
UNITED NATIONS ACADEMIC IMPACT AND MCN PROUDLY PRESENT HANNAH APPIAH, A MILLENNIUM FELLOW FOR THE CLASS OF 2023.
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology | Kumasi, Ghana | Advancing SDG 3 & UNAI 5
Millennium Fellowship Project: MCHAN COSMETICS
McHan Organics is a groundbreaking initiative founded by Hannah Appiah in 2023, addressing critical challenges in the cocoa-producing regions of Ghana. Our project focuses on the improper disposal of cocoa pod waste, a widespread issue contributing to environmental degradation, health risks, and limited economic opportunities for women in these communities.
Problem Statement:
The global agricultural sector, especially the cocoa farming industry, faces a severe Agro-Waste Crisis. In Ghana, smallholder cocoa farmers generate a staggering 858,720 tons of cocoa pod husk waste annually. Inadequate waste management leads to environmental threats, including greenhouse gas emissions, soil degradation, water pollution, and health risks. In Sefwi Wiawso, a crucial cocoa-producing community, inefficient waste disposal exacerbates the crisis, posing severe environmental and health risks.
Solution:
McHan Organics addresses this challenge by transforming cocoa pod husks into sustainable cosmetic ingredients and eco-friendly mosquito repellents. Our solution encompasses sustainable agricultural practices, direct partnerships with farmers, women's empowerment through skills training and employment, and alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for comprehensive community development. This holistic approach not only mitigates environmental risks but also contributes to climate sustainability, economic empowerment, and social well-being.
Achievements:
Recognized as the runner-up in the Global Innovation Challenge in the Climate Category, McHan Organics has demonstrated the effectiveness of our solution on a global scale. We have trained 25 women, currently employing five in Sefwi Wiawso, directly impacting 25 lives and indirectly benefiting 52. Our innovative products, including 108 pieces of organic cosmetics, have garnered recognition, with the KNUST vice chancellor acknowledging McHan Organics as the most innovative project in 2023.
Future Impact:
Looking ahead, McHan Organics aspires to scale its impact globally, training more women, expanding its product line, and fostering partnerships worldwide. With a vision of creating a circular economy that transforms agrowaste into valuable resources, we aim to contribute significantly to environmental sustainability, women's economic empowerment, and global development goals.
**Value Chain:**
Our company operates across various value chains, including Agri-Research, Production, Processing, Marketing & Distribution, Climate Innovation, Technology, and Services.
Conclusion:
McHan Organics represents a transformative force in sustainable agriculture, providing an innovative solution that not only addresses environmental challenges but also empowers communities, especially women, and contributes to the broader goals of sustainable development.
About the Millennium Fellow
Hannah Appiah, a dedicated third-year student pursuing a BSc in Statistics at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Ghana, is driven by her passion to create a positive impact on both people's lives and the environment using technology , innovation .recycling and trainings to achieve her mission . Hailing from a developing country where poverty, high rate of unemployment , teenage pregnancy is rampant, Hannah aspires to leverage her education and skills to address these and other societal challenges. With a vision to uplift her school, community, and Ghana at large, she envisions engaging fellow youth in transformative technological and sanitation initiatives. Hannah's post-graduation plans include pursuing a master's degree in data science, further enhancing her ability to drive meaningful change.