Zithande Mzansi:: Fibre Circle

Empowering Communities through Recycling and Sustainability

Fibre Circle's Zithande Mzansi Programme is a transformative initiative designed to promote recycling, enhance food security, and improve sanitation in schools across South Africa. Launched in Mpumalanga, this program integrates various components aimed at fostering a circular economy while providing tangible benefits to local communities.

Recycling Initiatives

The Zithande Mzansi Programme focuses on the recycling of waste materials. Schools are equipped with recycling bins or bags to collect these materials, which are then collected by local businesses participating in the SMME Development Programme. This model not only helps in waste management but also provides a source of income for schools as the businesses pay for the recyclable materials collected. This dual approach supports both environmental sustainability and economic empowerment within the community.

Food Security Enhancement

In collaboration with Food and Trees for Africa, the programme also addresses food security in selected schools by establishing vegetable gardens and planting trees at some schools. These gardens serve multiple purposes:

Providing Nutritious Food: The produce from these gardens’ -benefits school children and local community members.

Skills Development: The initiative facilitates skill transfer to community members, empowering them with knowledge on sustainable agriculture practices

Dignity Project

A notable addition to the Zithande Mzansi Programme is the Dignity Project, launched in partnership with Infinite Industries. This project aims to replace unsafe pit latrines with environmentally friendly Dignity Loos in schools. Key features of these toilets include:

Sustainable Materials: Constructed from compressed poly-aluminium derived from recycled beverage cartons and toothpaste tubes.

Water Efficiency: Each toilet uses less than one litre of water per flush.

Soil Enrichment: The design allows for solid waste to dry out, which can then be used to enrich soil in the gardens.

Expansion of the Programme
Following a successful pilot in Mpumalanga, Fibre Circle has expanded the Zithande Mzansi Programme to other provinces, including Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Free State, and North West. This expansion reflects Fibre Circle’s commitment to creating a sustainable impact across South Africa.

Community Involvement and Partnerships

The success of the Zithande Mzansi Programme relies heavily on collaboration among various stakeholders:

Fibre Circle Members

SMME Partners

Recycling Mill Partners

Municipalities

Schools

Private Sector Partners

These partnerships are essential for fostering a robust circular economy that benefits all involved.

Get Involved

If you are interested in participating in the Zithande Mzansi Programme or would like more information, please contact Fibre Circle:
Fibre Circle's Zithande Mzansi Programme exemplifies how integrated approaches can address environmental challenges while promoting community welfare. By focusing on recycling, food security, and improved sanitation, the programme not only enhances the quality of life for school children but also empowers communities towards sustainable development. As it continues to expand, Zithande Mzansi serves as a model for similar initiatives aiming for a greener future in South Africa.