WasteAid secures US$316K to strengthen waste management in Africa

AFRICA – WasteAid has entered into a new partnership with global technology firm Veralto, securing US$316,000 (£237,000) in funding to bolster waste management initiatives in The Gambia and South Africa.

The funding will primarily support the expansion of resource management operations in the Greater Banjul Area, under WasteAid’s First Step Resource Management Programme.

A portion will also go toward enhancing waste management efforts in vulnerable communities in South Africa.

The program is designed to uplift communities engaged in informal waste collection by creating new income-generating opportunities.

By equipping plastic waste collectors with the tools, training, and support needed to become economically self-sufficient, the initiative seeks to improve livelihoods and offer more secure employment options.

In addition to financial empowerment, the program aims to improve the overall social conditions of individuals working in the informal waste sector.

This includes promoting safer working environments, reducing social stigma, and enhancing access to essential services.

Another core objective is to tackle plastic pollution at the community level. By discouraging casual littering and open dumping, the program promotes responsible waste disposal practices, helping to create cleaner, healthier urban environments.

WasteAid’s model focuses on community empowerment—training self-employed recycling entrepreneurs, sharing best practices in waste management, and advocating for increased investment from policymakers and donors.

“Our partnership with Veralto represents more than financial backing—it reflects a shared commitment to deliver sustainable, positive change for communities most affected by the waste crisis,” said Ceris Turner-Bailes, CEO of WasteAid.

“Together, we’ll help communities recover value from waste, protect the environment, and improve public health.”

Veralto’s support aligns with its broader sustainability agenda. In addition to funding, the partnership will involve engaging Veralto employees and stakeholders in global waste management projects, showcasing scalable solutions and driving awareness around the global waste crisis.

“Our nearly 17,000 associates work every day to ensure people around the world have access to clean water, safe food, and trusted goods,” said Surekha Trivedi, SVP of Strategy and Sustainability at Veralto.

“Partnering with WasteAid is a natural extension of our mission, reinforcing our commitment to sustainability and circularity.”

As the collaboration progresses, both organizations intend to highlight the tangible impact of integrated waste solutions and advocate for stronger global action in tackling waste-related challenges.

Subscribe to our email newsletters that provide busy executives like you with the latest news insights and trends from Africa and the World. SUBSCRIBE HERE