DAR ES SALAAM:THE Tanzania Recyclers Association (TARA), with the support of the GIZ Business Scouts for Development (BMZ) funded programme, has initiated Master Training of Trainers to ensure sustainable solid waste management and financing mechanisms in Dar es Salaam.
The two-day programme concluded recently brought together stakeholders from the private sector, public institutions and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs). Participants had the opportunity to engage in a study visit to the Pugu Kinyamwezi dumpsite and the master training covered various aspects of sustainable waste management.
Ms Lydia Loch, Advisor to the GIZ Business Scouts for Development Programme, highlighted that the training comprehensively covers sustainable solid waste management methods.
The programme has offered valuable insights into emerging trends, best practices, and lessons learned from various global regions grappling with comparable waste management challenges.
“We have a very extensive global network that deals with issues of solid waste. Therefore, collaborating with TARA, we saw it as beneficial to bring experts from Germany to provide this training at various levels. We believe that these training sessions will significantly enlighten small entrepreneurs engaged in these activities.
“The master training itself has been a treasure trove of insights…covering various aspects of sustainable waste management, it has equipped participants with the latest trends, best practices, and lessons learned from global counterparts grappling with similar challenges,” Ms Loch said
She added that the knowledge transfer is invaluable as they work towards implementing effective and innovative solutions in their local context.
In his remarks, Mr Henry Kazula, the TARA Coordinator, emphasised that a significant takeaway from the training is learning how to turn waste management activities into income-generating opportunities.
The participants acquired insights on integrating modern knowledge with their existing expertise to enhance the quality of their work. They also learned about establishing small-scale waste processing industries, aiming to create more employment opportunities for the youth.
“In our journey, a key lesson is to understand how to increase income through waste-related activities. By blending modern education with our traditional knowledge, we can elevate the quality of our work. Moreover, exploring the establishment of small-scale waste processing industries opens avenues for additional youth employment,” Mr Kazula said
Ms Belta Kazimoto, one of the participants of the training, pointed out that the training has provided a unique platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration. Bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds fosters an environment where the participants shared the insights, experiences and best practices.
This collaborative aspect encourages a holistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with solid waste management.
“One of the notable advantages of this initiative is the exposure it has provided through the study visit to the Pugu Kinyamwezi dumpsite. Witnessing firsthand the realities of waste management in our city has undoubtedly deepened our collective understanding. It has invoked a sense of urgency and commitment among us to address the pressing issues faced by our communities,” she narrated