For 38-year-old Bophelo Mogale, collecting recyclable waste has become a vital source of income, enabling her to provide for her two children and reduce her reliance on her mother. Mogale started waste picking in 2020, after years of being unemployed and dependent on her mother's support. Her journey into recycling began when she realized she could no longer remain idle and decided to take matters into her own hands.
Mogale is a member of the Khazimula Buy Back Centre in Mohlakeng, Randfontein, where she works alongside a group of 11 reclaimers. The process has become more organized, with Mogale and her colleagues collecting clear PET plastic, paper, and other recyclable materials from households in the community. Clear PET plastic is highly valued, and a 50kg bag can earn a significant amount of money, depending on the buying price.
Mogale's day begins early, with her waking up at around 5am to start collecting recyclable waste. She and her colleagues visit households in the community, searching for valuable materials such as clear plastic and paper. The income generated from recycling varies daily, but Mogale estimates that by the weekend, she can accumulate almost R3,000.
According to Mogale, a 50kg bag of clear PET plastic can earn around R350, while a bag of paper can bring in R1,000. The money earned from recycling has enabled Mogale to take care of her two children, providing them with food and other essential needs. Recycling has not only become a source of income but also a way to contribute to environmental cleanliness.
Before joining Khazimula, Mogale worked with a friend, collecting bottles and other recyclable materials and selling them at a buy-back point. This informal arrangement eventually led her to join the Khazimula Buy Back Centre, where she has become an integral part of the reclaimer group.
Mogale's journey into recycling has been transformative, enabling her to become self-sufficient and reduce her dependence on her mother. She takes pride in being able to provide for her children, saying, "I have been able to take care of my two kids. Recycling is money to us and helps keep the environment clean."
Mogale's story serves as an inspiration to others who may be facing similar challenges. Her determination to become self-sufficient and provide for her family through recycling demonstrates the potential for individuals to make a positive impact on their lives and the environment.
Key points
- Bophelo Mogale earns a significant income from collecting recyclable waste, enabling her to provide for her two children.
- Mogale's journey into recycling began in 2020, when she decided to take matters into her own hands and become self-sufficient.
- The Khazimula Buy Back Centre in Mohlakeng, Randfontein, provides a platform for reclaimers like Mogale to collect and sell recyclable materials.
