MetPac-SA hosted a successful PPE handover and training event at the Save A Life Buy Back Centre in Umlazi, reaffirming its commitment to supporting waste pickers and advancing environmental sustainability in South Africa.
As part of this initiative, MetPac-SA provided essential Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to 150 waste pickers operating under the Save A Life Buy Back Centre. All beneficiaries had been formally registered in 2025 on the Lariat system through the Amplo platform and are active participants in the digital waste management ecosystem.
The Save A Life Buy Back Centre, owned and managed by Mr Sibusiso Dumisa, plays a significant role in promoting environmental sustainability within the Umlazi community. Mr Dumisa has further contributed to environmental awareness through the launch of his book, Nature Warriors, which is set to be distributed across schools in Umlazi.
The registered waste pickers received Amplo cards during the 2025 registration process, enabling them to access waste picker service fees through a secure, cashless system. This system not only enhances safety by reducing the risk of cash-related theft but also ensures full transparency and auditability, with waste volumes accurately tracked and recorded. Since the digitisation of the Buy Back Centre in 2025, there has been a notable increase in recorded tonnages, highlighting the positive impact of the system.
The event commenced with an opening prayer followed by a welcome address from Ms Khosi Mbatha, MetPac-SA Project Manager, who acknowledged all stakeholders and attendees. This was followed by remarks from the CEO of MetPac-SA, Dr Kishan Singh, who expressed appreciation for the critical role waste pickers play in diverting waste from landfills and contributing to environmental preservation. Dr Singh also provided an overview of MetPac-SA’s mandate and highlighted the importance of safe handling of aerosols, noting that national training initiatives will be rolled out across South Africa.
A motivational address was delivered by Dr Ravi Nadar, who emphasised the importance of waste pickers within the waste management value chain. He encouraged waste pickers to pursue growth opportunities, including the establishment of their own buy-
back centres, and stressed the importance of dignity, empowerment, and access to proper tools of trade, including PPE and training.
MetPac-SA’s interns Masigan, Maria, Shanelle, and Debora played a key role in coordinating the distribution of PPE, ensuring that all equipment was appropriately sized and allocated to each registered waste picker. All recipients were verified through the Lariat and Amplo systems.
Catering for the event was provided by Mlokothi Catering Services, with waste pickers receiving both breakfast and lunch. The event was further enriched by live coverage from Intokozo FM, which broadcast proceedings and engaged listeners on topics related to metal packaging and recycling. Entertainment was provided by eKasi music performers, and the MetPac-SA educational song on recycling was well received by attendees. The song continues to gain traction, currently receiving airplay on CapeTalk and Intokozo FM.
The training session, conducted in the afternoon by Mr Kwazi Bhengu, focused on financial management and health and safety. Topics included budgeting, saving, business registration, and planning, as well as the correct use and maintenance of PPE. The session aimed to equip waste pickers with practical knowledge to enhance both their livelihoods and workplace safety.
Media engagement formed part of the event, with Intokozo FM conducting interviews with key stakeholders, including Dr Kishan Singh and Mr Sibusiso Dumisa.
