A deeply moving and transformative programme took place at uMfolozi Local Municipality, where waste reclaimers and recyclers were honoured for the critical contribution they make to local environmental sustainability. Polyco, together with the municipality and key partners, handed over PPE, recycling trolleys, and separation-at-source bins providing reclaimers with the tools they need to work safely, efficiently and with dignity
The Chairman of the Community Services Portfolio, Cllr N.S. Ngubane, set the tone by highlighting how what many see as “waste” can be transformed into valuable products that stimulate the industrial and manufacturing sectors. He emphasised that waste pickers are not just informal workers, but frontline environmental protectors who save rivers from pollution and reduce the amount of plastic entering landfills.
Representing Polyco, Kabelo unpacked the role of Producer Responsibility Organisations and explained why supporting reclaimers is central to South Africa’s circular economy. He reminded attendees that Polyco not only supports waste collectors but also invests strongly in organisations running environmental awareness and education campaigns.
The audience was inspired by Nompilo Nxumalo from Ku Green Hands, who shared her journey as a direct beneficiary of Polyco’s programmes. She spoke passionately about the opportunities created through initiatives like Packa-Ching, where her truck travels through Richards Bay buying recyclable materials and empowering households through responsible waste separation.
Fezile Mdletshe from uMfolozi Local Municipality delivered one of the day’s most impactful sessions. Her workshop unpacked the real value of reclaimer work and gave practical insight into the systems the municipality has put in place to support waste management. Fezile explained how municipal trucks are already collecting recyclables in ten wards, and also touched on the potential of garden waste to be processed into compost — demonstrating the broader ecosystem of innovation emerging within municipal waste services. Her message was clear: reclaimers are essential partners in building cleaner, greener communities.
A representative from the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) simplified the technical aspects of waste characterisation, compliance, and norms and standards. She encouraged waste pickers to ensure that authorities are aware of their operations, as this strengthens visibility and enables the government to properly channel support to the right beneficiaries.
In closing, the Mayor delivered heartfelt remarks, applauding reclaimers for their commitment to recycling and for actively protecting the environment through their daily work. He emphasised the municipality’s intention to expand support across more wards, including the acquisition of a dedicated recycling truck to further enhance waste recovery efforts. The Mayor also called on departments and partners to continue collaborating so that more support reaches those doing the hard work on the ground.
The programme stood as a powerful reminder that waste reclaimers are the backbone of South Africa’s recycling value chain. With support from Polyco, passionate municipal leaders, and committed organisations, the future of sustainable waste management in uMfolozi looks promising.
