The Geo Pomona Waste Management sorting plant, a groundbreaking facility aimed at enhancing waste management and recycling in Zimbabwe, is set to be completed by the end of February 2025.
This announcement was made by the company’s chief executive officer and executive chairman, Dr. Dilesh Nguwaya, during a recent tour of the site by City of Mutare executives.
The sorting plant will play a crucial role in processing mixed waste materials, effectively separating recyclables such as plastics, bottles, and metals from non-recyclable waste. Recyclable materials will be sold to recycling companies, while non-recyclable combustible waste will be sent to a waste-to-energy plant for incineration, generating much-needed electricity.
Dr. Nguwaya highlighted the expertise of Turkish engineers who are overseeing the installation of the sorting plant, stating, “Their expertise ensures that the project is progressing smoothly and efficiently.”
He emphasized that this facility marks a significant milestone in Zimbabwe’s waste management efforts, which are increasingly vital as cities grapple with rising waste production.
During the tour, the acting director of health services for Mutare City Council, Ms. Unice Muyambuki, expressed her appreciation for the advanced waste treatment technologies being implemented. She noted that Mutare has made strides in developing its landfill, including successful groundwater monitoring through borehole drilling. The next phase involves establishing a leachate treatment plant, leveraging insights gained from the Geo Pomona project.
“We have traditionally relied on old methods for waste management, but the new technologies we observed today offer effective and permanent solutions,” Ms. Muyambuki remarked.
In a broader context, Dr. Nguwaya also spoke about the need to replicate such waste management practices across all cities in Zimbabwe.
“We aim to have all cities adopt a waste management process similar to the sorting plants implemented in Harare, enhancing efficiency in waste handling and promoting recycling,” he stated.
In addition to local advancements, Dr. Nguwaya revealed that his engineers are currently conducting a feasibility study in Lesotho, preparing for a Memorandum of Understanding with the Lesotho government. He expressed optimism about extending effective waste management solutions to Maseru, similar to those being implemented in Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe is working to enhance its waste management systems, with the Geo Pomona sorting plant representing a significant step toward innovation and sustainability, aiming for a cleaner, greener future for the nation.
