By Nicolle de Bruyn | Executive Officer
The Institute of Waste Management of Southern Africa (IWMSA) is a non-profit organisation committed to promoting professional and sustainable waste management practices across South Africa. During the reporting period, IWMSA delivered a wide range of initiatives, including in-person and virtual training sessions, conferences, seminars, charity golf days, community clean-up campaigns, and outreach projects. These activities were implemented through IWMSA’s regional branches in collaboration with municipalities, industry partners, schools, and community organisations.
On Saturday, 31 January 2026, the IWMSA Eastern Cape Branch conducted a clean-up initiative in the Cambridge area of East London. The activity was supported by more than 50 participants, including representatives from local businesses, recycling companies, the ward councillor, and community residents. Through this collective effort, a total of 670.5 kg of recyclable waste was collected, making a significant positive impact on the cleanliness of the area and promoting environmental awareness within the community.
In celebration of World Recycling Day on 18 March 2026, the Eastern Cape Branch of the IWMSA attended the DNF Waste & Environmental Services Annual Recycling Awards Prize-Giving held at the DNF Waste Depot in Cambridge, East London. The event brought together schools, vendors, and glass collectors from across the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality to recognise and celebrate their outstanding contributions to recycling and waste diversion initiatives.
The Western Cape Branch of the IWMSA also launched a community paper recycling initiative in partnership with MES Durbanville and Safe Space Durbanville. As part of the initiative, IWMSA installed three branded recycling bins at the centre to establish a dedicated paper recycling stream. Through a partnership with One Stop Waste, the paper collected will be removed at no cost to MES Durbanville, while the organisation will also receive a rebate based on the weight of the recyclable material collected. This initiative aims to support both environmental sustainability and community upliftment.
Furthermore, the Eastern Cape Branch of the IWMSA hosted its annual conference under the theme, “Innovations in Waste Management.” The conference took place at Stirling High School in East London from 7–8 May 2026 and brought together industry professionals, stakeholders, and waste management practitioners to engage in current developments and innovative solutions within the sector.
As part of the conference programme, the branch also hosted the Eastern Cape Schools Recycling and Informal Recyclers Awards — an inspiring celebration recognising learners, educators, and community recyclers who are making a meaningful difference through recycling efforts and environmental stewardship.
In addition, the Western Cape and Central Branches of the IWMSA hosted prestigious Gala Dinner events commemorating the Institute’s 50th Anniversary on Thursday, 21 May 2026. As IWMSA celebrates this significant milestone in advancing the waste industry and promoting sustainability and circular economy solutions within the sector, the Institute extends its sincere gratitude to all waste management professionals, past Branch Committee members, and members whose contributions have shaped the growth and impact of the industry over the past five decades.
By Nicolle de Bruyn | Executive Officer
By Nicolle de Bruyn | Executive Officer
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