Empowering Environmental Stewards

Zimbabwe Waste Pickers Platform

Join us in transforming waste into opportunity, fostering sustainable development for a greener Zimbabwe.

Our Story and Mission

The Zimbabwe Waste Pickers Platform (ZWPP) was born out of a pressing need to tackle environmental degradation and socio-economic issues in Zimbabwe. Originating from a grassroots initiative by the Eastern Caucas Think Tank (TECa) in Mutare, ZWPP has evolved into a structured platform advocating for the rights and inclusion of waste pickers. These individuals play a crucial role in Zimbabwe’s circular economy, yet face significant challenges. Our mission is to empower these environmental stewards, ensuring their contributions are recognized and valued, while promoting sustainable development and economic inclusion.

Our Vision for the Future

Recognizing Waste Pickers as Key Contributors

ZWPP envisions a Zimbabwe where waste pickers are acknowledged as vital environmental stewards, integral to sustainable development. We strive for a future where they operate within a formalized, inclusive waste management system, contributing significantly to the country’s environmental goals. Our vision is to transform the perception of waste pickers, highlighting their indispensable role in reducing pollution and fostering a cleaner, greener Zimbabwe.

Our Vision

We envision a Zimbabwe where waste pickers are acknowledged as environmental stewards, playing a pivotal role in sustainable development. Our goal is to create a formalized waste management system that benefits both the environment and the livelihoods of these essential workers.

Our Commitment

We are committed to advocating for the rights and safety of waste pickers, providing them with the tools and support necessary to thrive in a dignified and inclusive environment. Our efforts focus on policy reforms and community engagement to foster sustainable development.

Our Mission

Our mission is to unite and empower Zimbabwe’s waste pickers, transforming them into a collective force capable of driving systemic change. We aim to elevate their status as key contributors to the circular economy, ensuring they are recognized, valued, and integrated into formal waste management systems.

Why a Waste Pickers Platform?

The establishment of a waste pickers platform in Zimbabwe is crucial due to the intersecting challenges of environmental degradation, economic instability, and social exclusion. As urban populations grow, waste management becomes increasingly strained, with informal waste pickers stepping in as unsung heroes. They recover a significant portion of recyclables, reducing landfill pressure and protecting waterways. By integrating them into formal systems, we can address unemployment, enhance resource efficiency, and promote social equity.

Our Impact and Goals

Policy Advocacy

We aim to influence policy reforms that officially recognize waste pickers, integrating them into formal waste management frameworks to ensure their contributions are acknowledged and rewarded.

Economic Empowerment

Our initiatives focus on waste valorisation, increasing the economic value of recyclables, and ensuring waste pickers receive fair compensation for their efforts.

Community Support

We strive to provide waste pickers with access to essential protective gear, fair pricing for materials, and a platform to voice their needs, fostering a supportive community for sustainable change.

Join Us in Transforming Zimbabwe's Future