Polyco has expanded its Packa-Ching recycling network in KwaZulu-Natal with the launch of a new mobile recycling unit in KwaMashu, operated by community-based enterprise Itheku Recycling Group.
Launched on Wednesday, 2 September 2026, with additional fuel sponsorship support from Sasol over and above Polyco’s EPR investment, the new unit will increase access to paid recycling in communities across KwaMashu and KwaDukuza, while strengthening Itheku Recycling Group’s capacity to collect and process recyclable material. The launch was attended by Polyco CEO Patricia Pillay, members of the Polyco team, site owner Reuben Govender, Ward Councillor Mandla Biyela, and representatives from Polyco Members Polyoak Packaging and MAK Plastics, along with community members and local recyclers. Through the Packa-Ching model, community members and waste reclaimers are paid directly for the plastic, paper and cardboard they collect, with every transaction recorded through Polyco’s WeighPay platform.
This is the 63rd addition to Polyco’s growing national Packa-Ching network, which brings paid, formalised recycling collection directly into communities across South Africa. The Packa-Ching project has paid out over R57 million to waste reclaimers and collected over 45 million kilograms of recyclable material. In 2025, over 8,650 reclaimers were registered and received service fee payments and the Packa-Ching project has supported over 200 jobs.
Founded in 2018 by Reuben Govender, Itheku Recycling Group has become an established recycling and waste management enterprise, with operations spanning KwaMashu/Mount Moriah, Pinetown, Durban and KwaDukuza. The company currently provides employment and income opportunities to close to 100 people, including providing work opportunities to youth in the community. The group processes an estimated 2 000 tonnes of recyclable material a year, including PET, HDPE, LDPE, PP, cardboard, and paper. The launch of this Packa-Ching trailer will increase iTheku’s collection capacity, operational efficiency and geographic reach.
“This partnership demonstrates what meaningful collaboration can achieve when we invest not only in recycling infrastructure, but in people,” said Lisl Doherty, Enterprise Development Manager at Polyco. “iTheku is creating a trusted and accessible space for reclaimers to sell their materials, earn sustainable incomes and strengthen their role within the recycling value chain. Through Packa-Ching, we are bringing collection services and training closer to reclaimers while supporting job creation, skills development and more inclusive economic participation.”
This partnership forms part of Polyco’s ongoing efforts to support community-based enterprises working in communities to provide recycling services, helping to formalise their operations, expand their reach and create sustainable income for the people who collect, sort and recover recyclable material every day.
