Malawi is pushing for a bold shift in how its cities handle mounting garbage, with Minister of Local Government Ben Phiri leading high-level efforts to explore a partnership with Zimbabwe’s Geo Pomona Waste Management.
Phiri recently toured the company’s state-of-the-art facility in Harare, where he inspected operations and held discussions with executives on how Malawi can adapt the waste-to-energy model to its own urban centres.
Speaking after the visit, Phiri said the project represents more than just infrastructure, it embodies an African solution to African problems.
“The chief here had a dream, and we are pleased that he is living his dream. His dream is not isolated. It is a dream that is answering to a lot of challenges that African countries are facing, one of which is Malawi,” said Phiri.
He linked the initiative to Malawi’s broader development vision under President Arthur Peter Mutharika, saying the country is embracing a new way of thinking about service delivery and innovation.
“We have got a new president, Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, in Malawi, who has completely transformed our thinking. We are no longer doing business as usual,” he said.
Malawi’s cities continue to struggle with growing volumes of solid waste, a challenge that has overwhelmed existing collection and disposal systems. Piles of uncollected garbage, blocked drainage systems and environmental hazards have become common sights in some urban areas.
Phiri acknowledged the scale of the crisis.
“We have got a lot of waste in our country, in our cities, which we are failing to manage. A solution has been provided and demonstrated by this company here with all the capacity. The question is, why should we look for such a facility outside Africa when there is an African who can do it?” he asked.
Geo Pomona Executive Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer Dilesh Nguwaya said the company is determined to position Zimbabwe as a continental leader in waste management innovation.
“As Geo Pomona, we continue to take a bold step forward, being an example in the region and on the continent, continuing to showcase our ability in terms of how we manage our waste,” said Nguwaya.
Meanwhile, the Malawi government has since announced plans to establish a technical task team to assess how the Geo Pomona model can be tailored to Malawi’s specific needs, infrastructure and regulatory framework. The team’s recommendations will guide the next steps, including possible presentation to the President for policy consideration.
