Plastic waste collection and purchase operation in Kinshasa, DRC
The company Ok Plast, based in Kinshasa, recently organized an operation to collect and purchase plastic waste in the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This initiative was carried out as part of the commemoration of World Clean-Up Day, celebrated each year on September 16.
The event mobilized different actors, such as local authorities, Kinshasa youth, journalists and even the Ambassador of the Netherlands. Together, they walked the streets of Kinshasa, starting with the Socimat artery to the Central Station, via the Boulevard du 30 Juin.
The collection was successful, with more than 21 bags of plastic waste weighing 100 kg collected only in the commune of Gombe. This significant quantity demonstrates the scale of the plastic pollution problem in the city.
Jérôme Sekana, Managing Director of Agence Maximedias, Kintoko Plast’s consulting agency, underlines the importance of “eco-friendly actions” in the fight against pollution. Eco-friendly actions consist of adopting environmentally friendly behaviors on a daily basis, such as sorting waste. In Kinshasa, where the production of household waste reaches 10,000 tonnes per day, 40% of which is plastic, it is essential to raise awareness among the population about these responsible practices.
In addition, Jérôme Sekana invites unemployed young people to seize the economic opportunity represented by the collection and sale of plastic bottles. Ok Plast has containers scattered around the city and is even planning the construction of a new counting center. This approach aims to encourage recycling and use plastic waste as a source of income.
Local officials, such as the Mayor of the commune of Kisenso, support this initiative by inviting the population to adopt sustainable practices, such as the salongo system (waste collection) every Saturday. They also highlight the harmful consequences of plastics for air and water quality.
This plastic waste collection operation is part of World Clean Up Day, an international event that brings together millions of volunteers, governments and organizations in 191 countries to combat the global waste problem and promote a cleaner world. sustainable.
By encouraging awareness, recycling and recovery of plastic waste, the plastic waste collection and purchase operation in Kinshasa contributes to the creation of ecological awareness and the promotion of a circular economy. It is essential to act collectively to preserve our environment and ensure a better future for all.