Women waste pickers in Botswana often face unsafe conditions, low incomes, and exclusion from formal systems. The project aims to integrate them into structured, dignified waste operations
Through this project, GAYO is establishing a pilot Material Recovery Facility (MRF) under the Zero Waste portfolio, with a deliberate focus on women’s inclusion and economic empowerment.
Key Components
1. Inclusive MRF Design
The facility is designed to:
– Provide safe working conditions (PPE, sanitation, shaded workspaces)
– Enable efficient sorting, storage, and aggregation of recyclables
– Be accessible and responsive to women’s needs
2. Women Waste Picker Integration
Women informal waste pickers are:
– Identified and registered
– Integrated into daily MRF operations
– Provided with structured roles and income streams
3. Cooperative Formation & Strengthening
The project supports:
– Formation of women-led cooperatives
– Training in governance, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship
– Collective negotiation with buyers for improved pricing
4. Capacity Building & Training
Training modules include:
– Waste segregation and quality control
– Occupational health and safety
– Business management and cooperative leadership
5. Market Linkages & Policy Alignment
– Establish agreements with recyclers and buyers
– Collaborate with local authorities for informal waste pickers recognition and support
– Align with Botswana’s waste management and gender equality frameworks
RAMOTSWA PROJECT MRF.pdf