By Nicolle de Bruyn | Executive Officer
Since our last update, the Institute of Waste Management of Southern Africa (IWMSA) has continued to make meaningful strides in advancing sustainable waste management practices across the region. With the support of our donors and members, we have been able to expand training, strengthen community outreach, and create new opportunities for knowledge-sharing.
Over the past three months, IWMSA successfully hosted a series of training workshops aimed at municipal officials, waste operators, and young professionals. These workshops focused on practical waste minimisation strategies, safe landfill operations, and the integration of circular economy principles into everyday waste management practices. A total of 185 individuals were trained, empowering them with skills that will directly impact how waste is managed in their communities.
One of the most inspiring stories from this period comes from a young participant named Sipho (name changed for privacy), who joined our Youth in Waste programme. Sipho had limited access to resources or training in his hometown but, after attending IWMSA’s workshop, has started mobilising local schools to introduce recycling initiatives. His passion is a reminder of why capacity-building is at the heart of our work – one trained individual can inspire many others.
In addition to training, IWMSA has continued to provide platforms for dialogue between government, industry, and communities. Our regional branches have held roundtable discussions on tackling plastic pollution, and we are preparing for our 2025 Biennial Conference, which will bring together hundreds of professionals and innovators to share solutions for a more sustainable future.
Your support has allowed us to continue this critical work. Together, we are shaping a Southern Africa where waste is seen not as a burden, but as a resource. Thank you for being part of this journey – the impact of your contributions is visible in every trained professional, every engaged community, and every step forward toward a cleaner environment.
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