In a bold and innovative move to educate the South African public about the environmental benefits of metal recycling, MetPac-SA has released a vibrant new Zulu song titled “Qoqa Amakani” performed by rising local artist Maronza Robzen.
Qoqa Amakani by MetPac-SA is available on all major streaming platforms and is free for educational use. MetPac-SA encourages schools, municipalities and community groups to incorporate the song into their recycling awareness activities.
Loosely translated, the title means “Pick up those cans,” and the song uses storytelling and energetic beats to symbolise the life cycle of a metal can.
MetPac-SA wanted to find a unique and engaging way to communicate the message that metal packaging can be recycled over and over again, without losing its quality.
“Qoqa Amakani is more than just a catchy tune. It’s a celebration of circularity and a reminder that our everyday choices impact the planet. By collecting cans South Africans can also learn about the importance of keeping metal in use through recycling”, explained CEO of MetPac-SA Dr Kishan Singh.
The song blends township rhythms with modern beats, highlighting the infinite recyclability of metal and metal packaging. With memorable lyrics and an upbeat tempo, Qoqa Amakani aims to engage communities across the country, especially the youth, in a conversation about responsible waste management and sustainability.
“This initiative forms part of MetPac-SA’s broader public awareness campaign, which includes community outreach programmes, school partnerships, and digital media content. Environmental sustainability education through music can break down barriers and make environmental topics more relatable and accessible to the public” Khosi Mbatha, MetPac-SA Project Manager
Maronza Robzen, known for his commitment to using music as a tool for social change, expressed pride in being part of the project. “When MetPac-SA approached me with the idea, I was immediately on board. Music is a powerful language. It connects people and if we can use that connection to drive positive environmental behaviour, then we are making a real impact,” he said.
The music video, shot in various urban settings across South Africa, features waste pickers collecting cans from rivers and from the streets. Waste pickers take the cans to a local buyback centre where they get paid money for the cans collected.
“Our goal as MetPac-SA is not only to increase the national recycling rate, but also to create a culture of environmental responsibility including the adoption of a circular economy. Metal is a permanent material that can be recycled forever. Through this song, we’re conveying that fact into a message of hope and action,” Khosi concluded.
