Waste sector stakeholders have introduced three decentralized waste recovery models known as Ecosort Buy-Back Centres, establishing waste management as a fundamental element in Kenya’s environmental transformation strategy.
The program, spearheaded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), TakaTaka Ni Mali Foundation (TTNM), the International Solid Waste Association (ISWA), and various public and private sector collaborators, was formally introduced on World Environment Day.
The four pilot facilities, each valued at approximately Sh3 million, function as community-based collection points where individuals can deposit recyclable items, have them quantified, and receive compensation via a transparent system supported by the EcoMali digital platform.
The operational framework comprises three essential stages: Rejesha (Return), Pima (Measure), and Lipwa (Get Paid).
Jean-Luc Stalon, UNDP’s representative in Kenya, led the launch event at the TakaTaka Ni Mali Foundation headquarters in Lavington, joined by Environment secretary Selly Kimosop and TTNM founder and patron Mary Ngechu.
Kenya produces an estimated 22,000 tonnes of waste daily, based on an average per capita generation rate of 0.5 kilograms.
Approximately 40 percent of this waste originates from urban regions. With urbanization increasing by 10 percent, urban populations are projected to generate around 5.5 million tonnes annually by 2030.
Current data indicates 60 to 70 percent of waste is organic, 20 percent plastic, 10 percent paper, 2 percent metal, and one percent medical waste.
Stalon explained that the initiative will enhance waste collectors’ capabilities by providing opportunities for improved earnings through structured recycling systems.
He mentioned that the four units transferred to TakaTaka Ni Mali serve as catalysts, with plans to expand to approximately 3,000 units nationwide to achieve broader impact.
“These facilities will demonstrate improved recycling management. Rather than seeing plastic bottles scattered everywhere, people can gather them, bring them to these Ecosort centers, and they will be processed for the circular economy,” he stated.
He indicated that expanding the model will require substantial financial collaborations, including partnerships with financial institutions.
Stalon also noted that the initiative aligns with the NextGen.Ke Youth Employment Program, which seeks to create job opportunities for young people. He mentioned that 75 percent of Kenya’s population is under 35 and urgently requires employment prospects.
“This represents an additional pathway through which we can position young people in jobs and equip them with skills to work not only in employment but also in entrepreneurship,” he said.
Stalon stressed that UNDP is collaborating with technical institutions to ensure the project’s long-term viability.
The Ecosort initiative aims to resolve persistent challenges encountered by informal recyclers, including fragmented supply chains, inadequate storage facilities, limited market access, and limited bargaining power.
Through enhanced aggregation systems and logistics efficiency, the model allows operators to manage larger quantities of waste while decreasing transportation expenses and increasing revenue.
The project also forms part of the Africa Waste Is Wealth Summit III, a continental forum bringing together policymakers, investors, development partners, manufacturers, recyclers, and entrepreneurs to examine Africa’s circular economy transition.
Mary Ngechu stated that TTNM concentrates on empowering waste collectors, adding that the four units will be distributed to four groups in Nairobi.
She mentioned that each unit contains equipment such as a baler and glass crusher, which assist in addressing space limitations.
“The baler reduces waste volume, enabling smaller spaces to handle more material efficiently,” Ngechu explained.
She indicated that improved waste volumes will attract recycling companies and strengthen the value chain.
Ngechu noted that many waste groups continue to rely on manual record-keeping, and the new system will introduce digitalization and financial partnerships to access working capital.
Historical data generated through the system is expected to assist recyclers in obtaining equipment financing for items such as washing lines and shredders.
As waste entrepreneurs expand, she said, they will be able to establish complete processing facilities and produce higher-value products, increasing income throughout the value chain.
Environment secretary Selly Kimosop stated that the initiative provides practical solutions to Kenya’s waste management challenges.
She commended UNDP for providing initial capital to help private sector entities expand innovations in the circular economy.
“This model is inclusive, ensuring no one is left behind, including waste pickers and recyclers, and promotes job creation consistent with the BETA agenda,” she said.
She mentioned that digitalization will enhance traceability and provide reliable data to inform policy development.
Kimosop also indicated that the government is developing supportive policies to foster private sector growth in this sector.