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A grassroots recycling co-operative in Kariega has grown from a one-person hustle into a 10-ton-a-month community operation with school partnerships, youth programmes, and expanded collection routes. The initiative is led by five local members and supported by funding from the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC).
From Street Litter to Community Impact
The Rest Multipurpose Primary Co-operative began informally in 2017, founded by Nosikhumbuzo Njobe after she attended a recycling workshop. Since then, the co-op has:
- Expanded to five core members
- Created seasonal jobs for up to 12 workers
- Partnered with over 50 schools in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Collected an average of 10 tons of waste monthly
- Maintained contracts with Coca-Cola, Buff Recycling, KZ Recycling, and Sustainable Seas Trust
Njobe said many young people initially saw recycling as a low-status activity. Through school workshops and competitions, attitudes are slowly shifting.
How the Co-op Works
The co-operative collects, sorts, and crushes recyclable waste, and then sells it to local processors. Key features of their operation include:
- Weekly collections from schools, spaza shops, and homes
- Payment incentives for community members who separate and store waste
- An “EnviroBuddies” youth programme that trains learners on recycling practices
- Educational outreach in both primary and high schools
Njobe explained that community members are more likely to participate when they understand the value of proper sorting.
What Funding Enabled
A grant of R386,868 from the ECDC’s Imvaba Cooperatives Fund allowed the co-op to purchase a new bakkie. This has significantly increased their reach and reliability.
“Now we collect from anywhere—schools, spaza shops and households,” Njobe said.
She added that calls now come in from households with enough separated waste ready for pickup.
Why It Matters for Youth and Informal Workers
Njobe encouraged young people in informal settlements to see recycling as a real business opportunity.
“You don’t need money to start, you just need the will,” she said. “Illegal dumping sites are everywhere. If young people could band together and collect waste, even in small groups, it could have a massive impact”.
Co-op at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2017, Kariega |
| Core Members | 5 (plus up to 12 seasonal workers) |
| Monthly Waste Collected | 10 tons |
| Collection Partners | 50+ schools, households, spaza shops |
| Buyers | Buff Recycling, KZ Recycling, Coca-Cola, SST |
| Major Funding Support | R386,868 from ECDC Imvaba Fund |
| Youth Programme | EnviroBuddies, in partnership with schools |
