Greencare Waste Solutions won top prize, a waste recycling equipment worth K2 million, solidifying their position as a leader in innovative waste management solutions.
The event, organised on December 13, 2024, by Waste Advisers, brought together Five waste management entrepreneurs from Zomba, namely Umodzi Green Collect, F and Social Enterprise AgriCare, Essie Cleaners, and Greencare, providing a platform for them to showcase their innovative strategies and discuss their contributions to waste management and the circular economy.
“We are happy to have won this award. It’s a testament to our team’s hard work and dedication to revolutionising waste management in Zomba,” said Hassan Nkata Jr – Managing Partner of Greencare Waste Solutions.
The theme of the event revolved around promoting innovative solutions in waste management that support sustainability and the circular economy.
It encouraged participants to demonstrate how their initiatives contribute to solving local waste management challenges while creating value for the community.
“The event was a great opportunity for us to share our vision and connect with like-minded individuals,” said Hassan Nkata Jr.
Greencare’s winning pitch emphasised their groundbreaking approach to waste management, highlighting sustainability, community engagement, and the development of a circular economy.
“Our approach is centered around creating value from waste, while promoting environmental sustainability and community empowerment,” he added.
Their commitment to turning waste into valuable resources resonated well with the judges and audience.
Greencare’s success can be attributed to their clear vision, teamwork and commitment to innovation.
“We have a talented and dedicated team that is passionate about making a difference in our community,” he said.
He added that winning the event was an incredible moment of pride and validation for the entire team.
“It affirmed our hard work and innovative approach to waste management and inspired us to continue pushing boundaries in the sector. We are excited to take our vision to the next level and make a meaningful impact in our community,” said Nkata Jr.
The recognition strengthens Greencare’s position as a leader in waste management while the resources gained will accelerate the development of the Chikanda Waste Transfer Centre into a fully functional waste management hub.
According to Khumbo Butao, Project Officer at Waste Advisers/GEMS, the organisation is collaborating with eco-businesses specialising in waste management and sustainable products across Malawi’s four major cities.
“The initiative aims to support these enterprises through business coaching, marketing, and grants in the form of equipment,” he said.
Zomba’s eco-entrepreneurs had the opportunity to pitch their businesses to a panel of business experts from various organisations and banks, seeking potential investment.
He said: “Five eco-entrepreneurs participated, with Green Care Solutions achieving the highest score based on the panel’s evaluation.
While all participants performed exceptionally well, we remain committed to working with each business to foster their growth and development.”
The Green Arena Pitching Event was part of the ‘Building Better’ project, a groundbreaking effort to combat climate change through innovative waste management solutions.
The project is a collaboration between Ladder Business Consultancy, Waste Advisors and the European Union.
In the coming months, Greencare plans to expand its recycling operations, scale up compost production, and launch new initiatives to promote sustainable waste management in Zomba.