After completing the WasteX Lab waste management and circular economy training, Arafa officially registered her innovative solution and business, Asili Fertilizers, which creates organic fertilizer using domestic and hotel food waste, cow dung, leaves, and other organic materials.
In Swahili, asili means “natural or traditional way of living”, Arafa explains. Today, the young entrepreneur’s company has two part-time employees, and young women in the community see her as a role model.
Poor waste management significantly impacts children’s health, education, and future prospects. About 60 per cent of solid waste in Zanzibar is not adequately managed, with a significant threat to children of exposure to toxic substances. Currently, 100 million children globally are highly exposed to air pollution caused by poorly managed waste.
