CSARO goal: Assist residents to improve their communities... solid waste management and hygiene knowledge

Demonstration farm using compost

Waste Recycling Development center

A Self Help group has continued to operate the composting facility at the waste recycling development center, recycling waste from several nearby markets and some households. During 2005 they have sorted over 180 tons of organic waste. In total they have made and sold 9937kg of compost generating income of nearly $1100 for the group. CSARO staff have continued to train and develop the skills of this group. The group has started bookkeeping to track their sales and opened their own bank account saving about $59 so far for equipment maintenance and development. Testing of the best composting methods has continued with much more efficient sustainable methods being developed over the year. A small laboratory is being established with facilities for testing such factors as soil pH and skills training is being developed to support the use of this equipment. The group now has sufficient experience and capacity to train others in composting techniques, generating further income.

Government authorities distributing CSARO waste collection equipment in Samaki Community

Solid waste collection activities in Samaki Community

Compost produced by SWM Program

Community primary waste collection

An important development in 2005 was the beginning of primary waste collections in the Samaki communities, where collections by truck are impossible due to road quality. Collections have started and a total of 540m3 was collected, with organic and other recyclable material being separated, while remaining waste is stored and collected every two weeks by the private company responsible. About 1 ton of waste is collected every day, and the collections have had a highly visible and significant impact on the sanitation in the communities, as well as providing much needed employment. Compost production has begun at the waste collection centre with a total of 706kg produced so far.

Quarterly meetings were held, bringing together self help groups and those from some CDCs. Discussion topics included:

• development of technical activity at the WRDC
• development of stronger marketing for compost locally
• improvement of the waste collection fee system in the Samaki communities
• improvement of the waste collection activity in the Samaki communities
• encouragement of saving activities

In addition to the quarterly meetings, those from CDC's with an interest visited the WRDC during the year to increase their understanding of recycling and the processes that might be needed in their communities.