Plastic pollution battle empowers Vic Falls women

Ratidzai Matumbura

Victoria Falls-In a commendable step towards tackling plastic pollution in Victoria Falls, Ele-Collection in partnership with Zion City Foundation, has launched an initiative to address environmental challenges.

The initiative not only helps preserve one of the world’s natural wonders but also creates employment opportunities for local women, empowering them economically.

Ele-Collection Collection Manager, Benjamin Norton, said the initiative seeks to address both environmental challenges and economic disparities in the region.

“Plastic is being ingested by animals, polluting our streets, and contributing to disease. It also has an unsightly impact on the environment. Our goal is to clean it up and repurpose it into something useful,” Norton said.

He added that the project focuses on employing women to bridge the employment gap between men and women. Many women in the area struggle to find income despite being the primary caregivers for their families.

“We decided to focus our collection efforts on women, providing income to those who need it most,” he added.

To ensure the safety of participants, Norton highlighted that all plastic collectors receive proper safety training and are equipped with gloves, masks and reflective vests. Collection teams are led by trained drivers, who also have first aid skills.

Zion City Foundation Director, Procedure Chikosi, praised the initiative, saying it aligns with their mission of empowering women and youth. The foundation offers skills training and community development programs aimed at uplifting disadvantaged groups.

“My heart is filled with joy when women are getting jobs and being able to sustain themselves. This partnership with Ele-Collection is more than just about picking plastic; it reduces diseases, keeps our streets clean, protects our animals, and helps these women earn an income to support their families,” Chikosi said.

Ward 5 Councilor Lewis Ncube also commended the project for its positive impact on the community. He urged the women to continue the excellent work, noting how the project helps them contribute to their families’ well-being.

Nosizo Ndlovu, a mother of two, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity.

“I am so thankful to be part of this. I can support my family and be a mother who provides for her children. We are well looked after, given safety gear, and provided with lunch,” she said.

Another participant, Edith Chuma, shared how the initiative has allowed her to support her parents.

“This opportunity has been life-changing. It helps prevent women from resorting to harmful means like prostitution or selling drugs to make money. I hope more women can benefit from such initiatives,” she said.

The Ele-Collection initiative has made a notable impact, reducing plastic waste while uplifting women in Victoria Falls, serving as a model for how community efforts can address both environmental and social challenges.