Windhoek residents have earned N$1 million from selling recyclable materials to the City’s first waste buyback centre, which has diverted more than 120 tonnes of waste from landfills, according to the City of Windhoek.
The City has now started construction of its second buyback centre to expand recycling efforts, create jobs, and promote sustainable waste management across the capital.
Mayor Councillor Ndeshihalefa Larandja said the initiative shows how collaboration and innovation can turn waste into economic opportunity.
“Through the first buyback centre, we have seen how innovation, community participation and partnerships can bring tangible results to the city,” she said.
Larandja said the first facility, completed earlier this year, cost N$2.6 million and was jointly funded by the City of Windhoek and the European Union (EU).
She added that the City spent about €50,000 (around N$1 million) purchasing recyclable materials directly from residents, a model that has empowered households while easing pressure on landfill sites.
Khomas Regional Governor Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma praised the project as a model for sustainable development addressing multiple challenges in the region.
“The Waste Buyback Centre is not merely an environmental project but a developmental catalyst that supports sustainable growth, job creation and poverty reduction,” Nujoma said.
He added that the initiative aligns with priorities under the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), which promotes green industrialisation and inclusive economic participation.
European Union Ambassador to Namibia, Her Excellency Anna Beatriz Martins, reaffirmed the EU’s support for Namibia’s urban sustainability efforts through a N$44 million grant aimed at improving solid waste management.
“The buyback centres are tangible examples of the circular economy in action, reducing waste, creating green jobs and empowering communities to protect the environment,” Martins said.
She said the first buyback centre recorded more than 9,000 drop-offs from residents, showing strong community engagement and commitment to recycling.
Speaking on behalf of Honourable Christopher Likuwa, Constituency Councillor for Tobias Hainyeko, community representative Henry Cleopas said the project is creating real empowerment for local residents.
“This initiative represents hope and opportunity for our community as it will create employment for youth and women while turning waste into wealth,” Cleopas said.
He said the buyback centres will uplift the image of the constituency and encourage responsible waste management among residents.
City of Windhoek Chief Executive Officer Moses Matyayi said the programme reflects the City’s commitment to inclusive development and environmental innovation.
“This is a community initiative for the people, by the people and with the people, where waste will no longer be seen as rubbish but as a resource,” Matyayi said.
He added that the City remains committed to working with residents to keep Windhoek one of Africa’s cleanest capitals.
