*Local Solutions Key to Zimbabwe's Waste Management Woes* 2-8February 2025 *By Charles Hami* Local initiatives are being hailed as the key to sustainable waste management in Zimbabwe's urban areas. Councillors from Karoi and Chinhoyi have emphasized the importance of community-led solutions in addressing the country's waste management challenges. > Follow The BGG News on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaZpsH71noz7ubzdaY2y Karoi Ward 9 Councillor, Muzondiwa Sawanje, highlighted the challenges faced by his municipality, including the lack of adequate refuse collection trucks. However, he noted that local initiatives, such as health promoters advocating for proper waste management at the household level, have shown promise in addressing these challenges. Similarly, Chinhoyi Ward 7 Councillor, Arnold Muronga, acknowledged the refuse collection challenges facing his municipality, but expressed enthusiasm for local initiatives proposed at the ward level. These initiatives include exchange programs to share knowledge on sustainable waste management practices. The Glen View 1 Clean-Up Campaign, a group of environmentalists from Glen View 1, has also been advocating for local initiatives in waste management and general environmental management. The group has been working with locals and has visited Budiriro's Material Recovery Centre (MRC), a pioneering initiative in waste recycling. Budiriro South MP, Hon. Darlington Chigumbu, pledged his support for local initiatives, emphasizing the need for collective action to address waste management challenges. Environmental expert, Mr. Kudakwashe Manomano, commended the MRC model, noting its potential for replication in other urban areas. Effective waste management requires a multi-faceted approach. Some key strategies include: - *Community Engagement*: Educating and involving the community in waste management practices - *Waste Reduction and Recycling*: Implementing initiatives to reduce waste generation and increase recycling rates - *Partnerships and Collaborations*: Fostering partnerships between local government, community groups, and private sector organizations to support waste management initiatives - *Infrastructure Development*: Investing in waste management infrastructure, such as recycling facilities and waste-to-energy plants By adopting these strategies and supporting local initiatives, Zimbabwe's urban areas can work towards a cleaner, healthier environment.