Focal Point Information

Focal Point Name: Busta Chiona

Designation: Director of Health and Social Services

Organization: Zomba City Council

City: Zomba City

Country: Malawi

1. What are the good practices you want to share with the ACCP fellows?

Formation of waste management committees in all ten wards of the city. These committees champion waste management interventions within their wards, such as organizing clean-up days, raising awareness on proper waste management practices, and enforcing community waste management by-laws. This initiative was supported by Habitat for Humanity, funded by UNDP.

Development of community waste management by-laws at the ward level in all ten wards of the city. These by-laws facilitate easier enforcement of waste management regulations as they are spearheaded by the community. This initiative was also supported by Habitat for Humanity, funded by UNDP.

Introduction of a circular economy competition in secondary schools within the city, where students develop innovative circular economy solutions. This program has been supported by Waste Advisors and funded by the European Union.

Organizing city clean-up campaigns, which help raise awareness about proper waste management practices. Key stakeholders include private waste companies, public and private institutions, schools, and the business community.

Conducting a solid waste characterization survey, supported by UN-Habitat.

2. What are the challenges in MSWM your city is facing today?

• Low rate of solid waste collection due to inadequate waste collection vehicles, leading to indiscriminate disposal in rivers and open spaces.
• Low recovery rate due to insufficient public adoption and a lack of waste management infrastructure to support a circular economy.
• Poor management of the disposal site due to the absence of servicing equipment such as a dozer.

3. Share your message to other members as a member of the same ACCP.

Greetings from Zomba City Council, Malawi!

As a member of the ACCP, Zomba City remains steadfast in its commitment to building a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable urban environment. The strides we have made in waste management are a testament to the valuable best practices shared through this platform.

I encourage all ACCP members to continue exchanging insights, experiences, and innovative solutions that have proven effective in your respective cities. Active participation in discussions, webinars, and collaborative projects hosted by ACCP is key to achieving our shared goals. Your voices and expertise are indispensable in driving impactful change.

Let’s keep the momentum going and create transformative solutions for our communities.