The media plays a crucial role in disseminating information about the implementation of the Zero Waste system in Tanzania. The media serves as a platform to educate the public about the Zero Waste principles and their importance. By broadcasting interviews, success stories, and informative segments, media can help raise awareness about waste management practices and the benefits of adopting a Zero Waste model. In May, we had an enlightening interview with TBC Taifa discussing the implementation of the Zero Waste (Taka Sifuri) system in Tanzania, specifically in Dar Es Salaam, Arusha, and Zanzibar. During this insightful session, we were joined by Marco Lutema who is a Zero Waste Expert and Community Mobilization officer from Nipe Fagio, Mr. John Yusuph, the Chairman of Wakusanya Taka Bonyokwa, and Ms. Rehema Tamimu, a dedicated member of the Wakusanya Taka Bonyokwa.
The discussion revolved around the journey of the Zero Waste system in Tanzania with a key focus on Bonyokwa, covering the successes, challenges, and opportunities that have emerged from Zero waste implementation. The Bonyokwa community’s adoption and adaptation to the Zero Waste practices resulted in notable achievements in reducing waste and promoting recycling within the community. Speaking during the interview Mr John Yusuph said “Operating the MRF has created local employment opportunities in various roles, including sorting, processing, and management of materials. This boosts the local economy and provides livelihoods to residents. We now have a waste collectors’ cooperative that has members who work at this centre.”
He added, “The Wakusanya Taka Bonyokwa Cooperative locally collects 1738.44kg (1.74 tonnes) per day. On a monthly basis, we manage an average of 40.65 tonnes of waste in Bonyokwa per month, including 31.4 tonnes of organic waste, 3.8 tonnes of recyclable waste, and 6.45 tonnes of residual and domestic hazardous waste, showcasing the model’s efficiency in waste collection.” The MRF helps divert significant amounts of recyclable materials from the Pugu dumpsite. This reduces the pressure on landfill sites and minimizes the associated environmental impacts, including methane emissions from decomposing waste.
The potential of organic waste composting and maggot farming (Maggots) is enhancing environmental conservation and boosting economic activities like local agriculture and poultry. Additionally, composting serves as an effective method for reducing methane emissions by promoting aerobic decomposition, diverting organic materials from landfills, improving soil health, and enhancing carbon sequestration. Through these mechanisms, composting is a valuable tool in addressing greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to waste management practices. Issues such as lack of awareness and resources encourage the need for continuous education and support to ensure the zero waste system’s sustainability and replication. The interview also emphasized the ongoing efforts to expand and strengthen the Zero Waste system across Tanzania. This includes continued collaboration with local communities, government bodies, and environmental organizations to promote waste management practices.
In conclusion, Zero Waste not only enhances waste management but also opens up new economic avenues. In Bonyokwa, the adoption of Zero Waste practices has led to revenue streams from waste collection fees, the sale of recyclables, and maggot farming initiatives. By investing in Zero Waste systems, we establish a foundation for significant change across Tanzania cities and regions.
