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Plastic waste collection becomes a source of livelihood in Lira city

30 September 2025, 1:05 pm

Plastic waste materials assembled at the weighing station.

By Agness Agilo

In an effort to conserve the environment, several residents of Lira City have taken up plastic waste collection, not only as an environmental initiative but also as a source of income.

Lillian Adur, a 45-year-old single mother from Angwetangwet in Lira City East Division, has been collecting plastic waste for the past three years. She told Radio Wa that what began as a passion to reduce environmental degradation has since become a means of livelihood. Adur collects used plastic bottles, broken chairs, and jerry cans, earning between 10,000 and 15,000 shillings daily. She sells a kilo of plastic waste for 300 shillings and has managed to provide for her family through this activity.

Adur explains how she collects plastic waste to reduce environmental degradation and generate a livelihood.

Similarly, Moris Obeny, a resident of Odokomit in Lira City West, has been engaged in plastic waste collection for nearly six years. He collects around four sacks of plastic waste each day, earning between 20,000 and 35,000 shillings daily.

Obeny transporting sacks of plastic waste to the weighing station.

Obeny emphasised that, beyond the financial gains, his work makes a significant contribution to environmental protection.

Obeny urges the public to deposit plastic waste in designated areas to protect the environment.

Simon Peter Okello, who has been in the business for two years, urged the people of Lango to adopt responsible waste disposal habits, such as using bins for plastic waste. He believes that such practices can help mitigate the effects of climate change, which are partly driven by environmental degradation.

Speaking on the matter, Leonard Otika, the Lira City Environmental Officer, confirmed that plastic waste is no longer a major concern in the city, thanks to the growing plastic recycling industry. Several businesses in Lira now purchase plastic waste for recycling, creating both employment opportunities and a cleaner environment.

Lira City Environmental Officer, Leonard Otika.

Otika, however, urged residents to continue practising proper waste disposal by using bins, in order to further reduce pollution.

Lira City Environmental Officer Otika confirms that plastic waste is no longer a major challenge in Lira City.

Otika emphasised that Lira City has implemented various environmental conservation measures, including greening and beautification through tree planting and landscaping. Waste management has also improved, with service providers operating under the Polluter Phase 4 Principle, ensuring that waste is collected from households, markets, and business centres.