From waste to wealth: Kibra youth transform lives through innovation

A remarkable wave of change is sweeping through the community in Kibra, Nairobi County a, driven by the youth and rooted in the power of recycling.

From discarded clothes to broken electronics, young people here are demonstrating that what some deem as “waste” can become a source of income, hope, and community transformation.

Grace Ayuma, a determined 22-year-old, is among the trailblazing youth leading this recycling movement.

Using her creativity and skills, she transforms worn-out clothes into stylish bags, mats, and accessories—products that now attract customers both within and outside the informal settlement.

“This project has truly changed my life,” she shares. “I never imagined I could earn money simply by reusing old clothes. Now I support my younger siblings and contribute to my family. It’s given me dignity and purpose.”

Similarly, 21-year-old Lora Musawi finds passion in electronics. Together with her peers, she visits homes to collect broken gadgets, often paying residents a small fee for discarded items.

The gadgets are then carefully dismantled and repurposed into useful products.

“We ask people to give us what they no longer use,” Lora explains. “Some are surprised when we pay them for what they see as junk. But for us, these are raw materials. We refurbish the parts into radios, lamps, and even art pieces.”

Beyond creating products, the initiative is shaping futures. Domain Mogaka, 23, shares how the project is helping him plan to return to school.

“I dropped out because we couldn’t afford school fees,” he says. “Now, with the income I earn, I’m saving towards going back to college. This job has reignited my dreams.”

The program is overseen by Rony Davida, a local youth leader and environmental activist, who explains that it was launched to tackle both unemployment and environmental degradation in Kibra.

“We saw so much waste lying around and many young people sitting idle,” Rony notes. “Why not address both issues simultaneously? We train the youth, provide tools, and enable them to earn while protecting our environment.”

He emphasizes that beyond income, the initiative fosters discipline and purpose.

“We encourage our youth to spend wisely,” Rony advises. “Save for your goals, start small businesses, or invest in your education. We want to see sustainable growth and ambition.”

The project has garnered widespread community support and beyond, cultivating a culture of reuse and sustainability.

What started as a small group has blossomed into a movement transforming lives and shifting mindsets.