This archive report was first published on 12 November 2019.
As Kenya's population continues to grow, innovative waste management solutions are becoming increasingly essential. One company, Havilla Smart Enviros, has found a way to turn waste into a valuable resource, earning millions in the process.
Founded in 2014 by Samuel Maina, Havilla Smart Enviros has been buying and shredding waste, selling it to other companies at a profit. The company's valuation is based on the quality of the waste, with plastics and polythene being the most sought-after materials.
With a slogan of 'waste is value,' Havilla Smart Enviros is working to change the way Kenyans think about waste. The company encourages people to segregate their waste at home, recognizing the value in every kilogram.
Since its inception, Havilla Smart Enviros has bought and shredded over 3,000 tons of waste, generating a gross income of up to Sh10 million annually. The company's innovative approach has earned it a nomination for Ambassador of Environmental Pollution by the Kenya Recyclers Association.
At their premises in Ngong, clients and suppliers bring in waste, which is then weighed on a digital scale connected to a mobile app. The app calculates the payment, which is sent directly to the suppliers through mobile money platforms or in cash for those without mobile money.
According to Mr. Maina, the biggest challenge facing the company is waste contamination, which occurs when different types of waste materials are mixed together. He also notes that perception is another significant obstacle, with some people viewing waste management as an undesirable industry.
As Kenya's population is expected to hit 70 million in the next 20 years, innovative waste management solutions like Havilla Smart Enviros will be crucial in reducing environmental threats and conserving the environment.
