RAFIKI PEPS: Youth-led venture leading Mombasa’s fight against plastic pollution and climate change

Rafiki Peps, a Mombasa-based youth startup, is pioneering zero-waste initiatives by offering comprehensive waste collection services that target plastics, organics, and non-recyclables. Their efforts are aimed at tackling the growing issues of plastic pollution and climate change head-on.

The startup specialises in waste segregation at the source, making it easier for communities to responsibly manage their waste. Juma Said, founder of Rafiki Peps, explains that through door-to-door awareness campaigns, Rafiki Peps educates residents on the importance of sorting waste. The company supplies households with colour coded bin liners, encouraging the separation of organic, recyclable, and non-recyclable materials.

“We collect waste from houses, business complexes, and schools; we provide them with bins for different waste, like recyclables, hazardous waste, and organic waste. We collect them and use recyclables, while the organic waste is used to make manure. These collections take place twice a week, with recyclables being directed to dedicated facilities, helping to divert waste from landfills and oceans,” he said.

According to Said, Rafiki Peps' approach goes beyond simple waste collection. Their model closes the loop in the circular economy by linking organic and recyclable waste to specialised recycling centres. The company generates revenue through collection service fees and the sale of recyclable and organic materials to dedicated recyclers.

“With millions of tonnes of plastic waste entering oceans each year, Rafiki Peps is determined to prevent further damage. We believe that the most effective way to stop plastic waste from harming marine life is by preventing it from entering waterways in the first place. Our mission is simple but powerful: sustainability starts with responsible waste management,” he said.

By championing waste segregation at the source, Rafiki Peps ensures that plastics, paper, and organic materials are properly recycled or disposed of, making a significant impact on the environment and contributing to a cleaner, healthier Mombasa.