Namibian authorities have recently inaugurated the first waste buy-back and recycling center (WBBC) in the capital, Windhoek.
By initiating waste recycling in its capital, Namibia aims to boost the circular economy while allowing residents to earn an income by collecting and selling recyclable materials.
Created as part of the "Improving Solid Waste Management in Windhoek" project funded by the European Union (EU), the WBBC aims to reduce waste volumes, minimize harmful environmental impacts, promote recycling, and create job opportunities through the incubation of startups focused on waste reengineering.
"The establishment of this facility also aligns with the goals set out in the 2018 National Waste Management Strategy, which aims to position Namibia as a leader in Africa in terms of solid waste management standards by 2028," said Windhoek Mayor, Queen Kamati.
Mayor Queen Kamati emphasized that this center represents a significant step towards achieving these ambitions. She hopes that the WBBC model can be replicated in other cities across the country to generalize recycling practices and sustainable waste management.
The WBBC operates on a “buy-back” model where citizens can bring their recyclable waste—such as plastic, metal, and paper—and get paid based on the weight of their contributions. This not only encourages recycling but also economically supports waste collectors, often among the poorest in society. The environmental impact of this program is also significant.
By reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, the center helps decrease greenhouse gas emissions and pollution.
Furthermore, recycling materials helps reduce the consumption of natural resources, aligning Namibia with global sustainable development goals. To complement the infrastructure of the WBBC, training workshops are regularly organized to teach residents the best sorting and recycling practices. These initiatives are designed to educate the public on the importance of recycling and to encourage active participation in waste management in the community.
Looking forward, the Namibian government plans to collaborate with local and international companies to expand recycling capacities throughout the country. Discussions are underway with several investors interested in developing advanced recycling technologies and new methods for reusing recycled materials. This move towards a more ecologically and economically viable waste management model could significantly transform Namibia's approach to the environment and sustainability.
With ongoing EU support and the commitment of the Namibian citizens, the WBBC project in Windhoek is well on its way to becoming a successful example of recycling and waste management in Africa.
