Creating green jobs and sustainable futures: The impact of Charlene Muguti

MS Charlene Harutizwi Muguti, a 28-year-old Gweru entrepreneur and her partner have launched a ground-breaking social enterprise. In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, their venture is making waves by tackling the pressing issue of plastic waste in Zimbabwe. Through innovative and environmentally friendly solutions, they’re paving the way for a cleaner and greener future.Together with her partner, Awuku Makafui from Ghana, the duo established Mckingtorch Africa in November 2023, with Muguti as the company’s Chief Executive Officer. The business is one of the many enterprises that participated at the 2024 Midlands Show which ended in Gweru yesterday.

In an interview, Ms Muguti said their vision was to transform waste management practices, empower communities and contribute to environmental sustainability across the region. The young company is anchored on creating a cleaner, greener future by turning waste into valuable resources and empowering communities with the knowledge and tools to protect their environment.

“Mckingtorch Zimbabwe specialises in creating high-quality, eco-friendly products made entirely from recycled plastic waste. Our product range includes stylish and durable shoes crafted from recycled materials,” she said.

“We make bags and belts, fashionable accessories that are both sustainable and unique because they are handmade pieces that combine creativity with environmental consciousness. Others are eco-packs, reusable, environmentally-friendly packaging solutions, plastic bins made from recycled plastic bottles for waste collection, plastic recovery receptacles and innovative containers designed to facilitate the collection and recycling of plastic waste.”

Ms Muguti said Mckingtorch Zimbabwe offers comprehensive waste management services designed to tackle the growing issue of plastic pollution. The business is also into waste recovery services, working with communities and businesses to recover plastic waste and ensuring it is recycled and repurposed efficiently. It incentivises plastic waste collection by purchasing recyclable materials from individuals and organisations.

“We provide training programmes to educate communities on the importance of recycling and upcycling, turning waste into valuable products. We design and install public art and functional structures made from recycled materials, promoting environmental awareness and beautifying public spaces,” she said.

Ms Muguti said Mckingtorch Zimbabwe is at the forefront of developing sustainable solutions that address both environmental and social challenges.

“One of our key innovations is the production of briquettes from farm waste. These briquettes are made by recycling agricultural residues such as maize stalks, peanut shells and other organic materials into compact, energy-efficient fuel sources,” she said.

By providing an alternative to firewood, the briquettes help to curb deforestation, a major environmental issue in Zimbabwe.

According to Ms Muguti, access to alternative fuel sources reduces the reliance on firewood, which often exposes women and girls to the risk of gender-based violence when they venture into unsafe areas to collect it.

“Mckingtorch Zimbabwe is deeply committed to empowering young people through recycling initiatives that create green jobs and promote environmental stewardship,” she added.

“We offer comprehensive training programmes designed to equip youth with the skills needed to recycle waste materials into marketable products. By training youth in recycling and upcycling, Mckingtorch Zimbabwe is creating a new generation of green entrepreneurs. These initiatives not only provide employment opportunities but also contribute to the broader goal of environmental sustainability.”

Ms Muguti said they employ eight people and have over 70 volunteers, mainly youths, who collect and sort recyclable materials from communities, ensuring a steady supply of raw materials for recycling.

“Trained youth are encouraged to become ambassadors for sustainability, spreading awareness and educating their peers on the importance of recycling and environmental protection. Mckingtorch Zimbabwe is deeply committed to engaging communities in environmental sustainability initiatives,” she said.

Mckingtorch Zimbabwe is registered as a social enterprise, solidifying its commitment to sustainable business practices.

“We have successfully organised multiple community clean-up campaigns, raising awareness about the importance of proper waste management. Our team has developed and produced a range of eco-friendly products, setting a new standard for recycled goods in Zimbabwe,” said Ms Muguti.

“Mckingtorch Zimbabwe actively contributes to environmental and climate policies, ensuring that our initiatives align with national and global sustainability goals. We envision a future where waste is no longer seen as a problem but as a valuable resource. We aim to expand our operations across Zimbabwe and beyond, becoming a leading force in the fight against plastic pollution and environmental degradation. Through continued innovation, community engagement and strategic partnerships, we are determined to create lasting positive change for our planet and future generations,” she said.