Entrepreneurs in the bustling cities of Tanzania have found a goldmine in an unlikely place – the collection of empty plastic bottles. What was once discarded as waste has now become a profitable venture, not only for the individuals involved but also as a crucial initiative in environmental preservation.
In Dar es Salaam, the largest city in Tanzania, astute entrepreneurs are diligently gathering empty water and juice plastic bottles, subsequently selling them to recycling industries. This not only contributes to environmental sustainability but also provides a significant source of income for many locals.
The scope of plastic waste in Tanzania is substantial, with statistics revealing that approximately 48% of the country’s daily 14,800-tonne waste output comprises plastic. Despite the staggering volume, individuals like Ms. Jenifer Kiano, a dealer in the business, are channeling their efforts towards positive change.
Ms. Kiano, based in Buguruni-Boma area, shared the transformative impact of the empty bottles business in her life. Over the past eight years, she has achieved remarkable milestones such as constructing a family house and financing her children’s education through the proceeds from the venture. “This is a lucrative business, though many people don’t recognize it in that way. It generates reasonable income that helps to manage our daily lives,” remarked Ms. Kiano.
The economic dynamics are equally compelling, with Ms. Kiano elaborating on the financial aspects. Operating with a capital of 1.0m/-, she purchases empty plastic bottles from collectors at 300/- per kilogramme and sells them to industries at 400/- per kilogramme. “These processing companies need at least 700 kilograms, and as for me, I can make it up to that minimum requirement…so I am capable of generating some 280,000/- from the required minimum amount,” she added.
Her sentiments are echoed by Mr. Jamal Jongo, a collector from the Karume area, who attested to earning between 10,000/- and 15,000/- per day from the business. “I respect this business since it enables me and my family to get the basic needs and also pay school fees for my children,” shared Mr. Jongo.
Similarly, Mr. Juma Athumani, a resident of Yombo Vituka in the Temeke district, hailed the life-changing impact of the business. “Many of us can survive in town due to this business… it enables us to meet our daily basics,” expressed Mr. Athumani, underscoring the vital role played by the entrepreneurial pursuit.
In essence, Tanzania’s entrepreneurs are not only addressing environmental concerns but also creating sustainable livelihoods through the innovative approach of converting trash into treasure. The empty plastic bottle collection business stands as a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of individuals in the face of environmental and economic challenges.
