The Institute of Waste Management of Southern Africa’s (IWMSA) Central Branch recently celebrated the significant contribution of women to the waste management sector. Speaking as Central Branch Chairperson and Council member, Makgabo van Niekerk highlighted the resilience, innovation, and leadership that women bring to the industry, ensuring that sustainability and compassion remain central to waste management practices.

Across South Africa, women are playing critical roles:

• Shaping policy by driving legislation that strengthens the circular economy and addresses challenges such as landfill shortages and low recycling rates.
• Leading education and awareness through campaigns that embed the culture of separation at source and inspire long-term behavioural change.
• Creating opportunities by managing buy-back centres that turn waste into livelihoods, job creation, and community upliftment.
• Driving innovation as entrepreneurs and researchers, developing solutions that reposition waste as a valuable resource and strengthen local economies.

On 8 August 2025, the IWMSA Central Branch hosted a Women’s Month gathering, providing a platform for women in the sector to share knowledge, challenges, and aspirations. The event underscored the importance of creating spaces where women can thrive, inspire, and drive transformation across the industry.

Van Niekerk noted that waste management requires a unique mix of expertise, including technical knowledge in environmental science, recycling technologies, compliance, logistics, and data analysis, combined with business and operational skills such as project management and financial planning. Just as vital are social and leadership qualities like communication, innovation, and community engagement – all areas where women are making an undeniable impact.

Supporting women in the sector, Van Niekerk added, is not only a matter of equity but also a catalyst for building a resilient, future-ready industry. With waste management sitting at the heart of the circular economy, the opportunities to create value are vast. Through collaboration and continued leadership, women are helping to accelerate the country’s journey toward a sustainable and inclusive future.

IWMSA Membership Renewal Reminder

As the new membership cycle begins, IWMSA is encouraging all members to renew for 2025/26 to remain connected and visible within the industry.

For members who have not yet renewed:

IWMSA membership has expired. By renewing, members can retain:

• Industry visibility
• Networking opportunities
• Exclusive discounts for all events

For members already renewed:

• Updated membership certificates have been issued. Members are encouraged to:
• Display the IWMSA logo proudly as proof of membership
• Boost their visibility by uploading a profile photo (individuals) or logo and company write-up (organisations)

Why Renew?

• Be listed among industry leaders
• Access events, updates, and insights
• Stay connected to IWMSA’s 50-year journey of impact
• All paid-up members are displayed on the IWMSA website. Members are reminded to check their profiles to ensure listings are complete.

New Members Spotlight

IWMSA welcomed several new members in August, bringing fresh energy and ideas to the community. The full list will be available soon, inspiring continued collaboration and growth across the sector.

Stay Engaged with IWMSA

• Upcoming events provide valuable networking and knowledge-sharing opportunities. View opportunities here.
• IWMSA online community – members and industry peers are encouraged to follow IWMSA on social media for the latest news, events, and insights.

By celebrating women’s leadership and strengthening member engagement, IWMSA continues to advance its mission of building a sustainable and inclusive waste management industry across Southern Africa.