From Trash to Treasure (TT) Empowering Women to Reduce, Reuse and Recycle Waste

The U.S. Embassy Gaborone of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for organizations to submit applications to carry out a Trash to Treasure program. The project will enable women waste collectors to access valuable business and life skills through a unique set of training and mentorship through a joint business and empowerment model, providing these women with skills and resources to make lasting change in their lives. Women in Botswana have a vital role in the waste value chain ranging from informal waste collectors and street sweepers to community recycling leaders. They have great potential to increase the amount of waste collected and recycled and to reduce the amount waste in the environment, especially plastic pollution However, due to gendered structural barriers, women usually lack opportunities and resources to realize their full potential in the waste sector and commonly face gender discrimination and even violence. The From Trash to Treasure project recognizes the critical role Botswana women play in the informal sector, filling gaps in service delivery, particularly in waste management. The project will help advance gender equality and economic security through the creation of green jobs in the waste sector. A comprehensive approach will enable women waste collectors to access business knowledge and valuable life skills that they wouldnt otherwise receive. The program combines a unique set of training, mentorship, as well as a joint business and empowerment model that provides women with skills and resources to make meaningful and lasting change in their lives. The proposed project includes the following activities: Enhance the capabilities and leadership of women waste collectors by providing specialized training in leadership, solid waste management, health and safety protocols, and entrepreneurial skills. This strategic empowerment will enable them to confidently engage with local government entities and the tourism sector, fostering formal partnerships that can lead to the growth and formalization of their waste management enterprises. Train women waste collectors to recycle waste materials and incorporate recycled materials into their production processes. This initiative will not only mitigate environmental impacts, but also promote resource conservation and demonstrate the potential for a circular economy in Botswana. The project aims to train at least 50 women waste collectors from Botswana on leadership, gender equality, solid waste management, health and safety, and business / entrepreneurial skills. The project will also cover waste management and recycling practices. It will also build capacity of women by training local women on business entrepreneurial and financial skills, allowing them to create quality products to be sold to tourists domestically, creating sustainable livelihoods.