M-taka named finalist in Kenya’s Young Environmentalist Challenge 2025

KENYA – M-taka, a Kenyan start-up driving sustainable waste management, has been selected as one of the 12 finalists in the Young Environmentalist Challenge (YEIC) 2025, an initiative led by the Kenya Community Development Foundation (KCDF) to spotlight youth-driven innovations addressing climate and environmental challenges.

The recognition marks a significant milestone for M-taka, whose mission is to build a zero-waste circular economy while dignifying the work of waste actors.

The platform uses technology to streamline waste handling, connect households with waste collectors, and promote recycling practices across communities.

“We are excited to be recognized among the YEIC finalists. This opportunity will allow us to scale our technology, train and equip waste actors with digital tools, and strengthen sustainable practices within households and businesses,” M-taka said in a statement.

Founded with the vision of transforming how communities perceive waste, M-taka’s model turns waste into value while creating sustainable livelihoods for youth and informal waste workers.

The company has been at the forefront of digitizing waste collection and linking recyclable materials to processing markets.

As a YEIC finalist, M-taka will gain access to mentorship, capacity-building workshops, and potential seed funding to help expand its solutions.

The Challenge, which has previously supported pioneering initiatives in clean energy, water conservation, and sustainable agriculture, provides a platform for young innovators to scale their impact.

Kenya has in recent years intensified efforts to address its growing waste management crisis. According to the Ministry of Environment, urban centers like Nairobi generate more than 2,500 tons of waste daily, with only a fraction being recycled.

The government has rolled out policies banning single-use plastics, promoting extended producer responsibility (EPR), and encouraging private sector participation in circular economy ventures.

M-taka’s recognition comes at a time when Kenya is positioning itself as a regional leader in green innovation and climate action, having hosted the Africa Climate Summit in 2023, where leaders emphasized youth involvement in driving climate solutions.

By leveraging digital tools, M-taka aims to complement these national efforts while empowering grassroots actors often overlooked in formal waste systems.

“This milestone is not just about us; it’s about everyone who believes in the power of innovation to solve environmental challenges. Together, we are showing that waste is wealth, and when communities come together, real change is possible,” the company added.

The winners of YEIC 2025 are expected to be announced later this year.

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