Since the launch of the I-Recycle Hub bin program at the Kilikali Settlement in Nadawa in July of this year, 452kg of recyclables were taken in for recycling, setting the standards for waste management.
The program is part of Pacific Recyling Foundation’s (PRF) Look Beyond movement, aiming to provide recycling and waste management solutions for everyone, not based on social status, skin colour, or ethnicity.
PRF founder Amitesh Deo commended the residents and recycling advocates for their impactful changes, saying they took their land and environment seriously.
“Throughout the 2023 project implementations for PRF and WRFL, Kilikali residents’ advocates took the advocacy to a different level of commitment and showed the passion that we want in our space,” he said.
Kilikali’s success, Me Deo said, was also recognition that individuals living in informal settlements can be role models.
“We want to grow this space because there are a lot of communities living in informal settlements that get stigmatised and looked down upon,” Mr Deo said.
“We want to change the narrative and hear their voices too.”
Since the program’s inception, about 10 young people without jobs have launched businesses, gone back to school, or obtained jobs. The program has had a positive and beneficial impact.
Pacific Energy CEO, Xavier Baronnet expressed pride in the residents and recycling advocates’ success, stating that the partnership with PRF was long-term and they look forward to developing more projects.
“The program and comprehensive training managed to raise awareness, allowed residents to know their rights, and helped the community raise their voices to find new jobs,” he said.
Neomai Raikanikoda, a recycling advocate from Kilikali Settlement, said within three months, the habit of carelessly disposing of their rubbish in the nearby creek minimised.
“There has been a huge behaviour change, but more work needed to be done,” she said. Ms Raikanikoda conveyed her appreciation to Pacific Energy and the PRF for implementing the I-Recycle Hub program in Kilikali.
