The ISOW project focuses on improving waste management and recycling in South Africa, by enhancing regulatory enforcement, investing in necessary infrastructure, supporting the informal waste sector, and creating employment opportunities, particularly for youth and women. The project is community-focused, delivering “Africanized” innovative solutions that are specifically tailored to the needs of the community and will actively promote entrepreneurship and provide business development and support services.
Acornhoek & Thulamahashe
Representatives from Plastics SA, GIZ, Petco, Polyco, Metpac, the appointed Consortium, and Bushbuckridge Municipality conducted a joint site visit to assess local waste collection systems, illegal dumping areas, and landfill readiness. Engagements with local buy-back centres provided valuable insights to inform the design of a community-based collection system and the proposed Waste Beneficiation Centre under the ISOW Project.
Thulamahashe
A stakeholder meeting at the Bohlabela Chamber brought together PROs, local government, community representatives, traditional leaders, and private sector partners. Participants expressed strong support for the planned Waste Beneficiation Centre, viewing it as a vital step toward job creation, skills development, and improved waste management in the region.
Technical Workgroup Committee Workshop
Following the field visits, Plastics SA, GIZ, Petco, Polyco, and Metpac met to review findings and advise on collection models for recyclables. A Technical Workgroup was formally established to provide expert guidance on the design, equipment, and logistics for the Waste Beneficiation Centre, ensuring alignment with local needs and industry standards.
New On-Site Project Manager Appointed
Plastics SA welcomed Hope Morema as the new ISOW On-Site Project Manager in Bushbuckridge. After completing a two-day Materials and Processing training, Hope was introduced to project partners and frameworks. Her appointment strengthens local implementation capacity and supports the ISOW Project’s circular economy objectives.
