Gaborone City Council (GCC) has entered into a collaboration with the Swedish city of Västerås in a move aimed at improving waste management systems in the capital while also supporting humanitarian efforts through the Botswana Red Cross.

The partnership, facilitated through the International Centre for Local Democracy (ICLD), seeks to introduce innovative waste management practices and strengthen community participation in environmental sustainability.

The collaboration was officially marked by a charity event held at the Gaborone City Council Civic Centre, which was attended by senior council officials, ICLD representatives and delegates from the city of Västerås.

Opening the proceedings, GCC Chief Environmental Health Officer Mr Patrick Oleseng highlighted stark differences in waste management between Botswana and Sweden, noting that approximately 98 per cent of waste in Botswana’s landfills was recyclable, compared to only about 10 per cent in Sweden.

Mr Oleseng said the alarming statistic underscored the need for the partnership, adding that community involvement played a major role in Sweden’s success.

He further said in Sweden, waste management was not only a municipal responsibility but also a community-driven effort, including financial participation, therefore urging Batswana to support waste management initiatives. 

He expressed hope that with collective effort, landfill waste could be reduced from 98 per cent to 50 per cent by the end of the year.

He also said the involvement of ICLD would not only improve waste management but also help preserve and reinvigorate Botswana’s natural environment, which the country is well known for.

Mr Oleseng also acknowledged donations made by the city of Västerås to the Botswana Red Cross.

Deputy Town  Clerk Ms Mosidi Batsalelwang , emphasised the importance of educating both current and future generations on the consequences of improper waste disposal. 

She reiterated the need for effective waste management schemes and highlighted the role of community awareness in achieving long-term environmental sustainability. 

She also stressed the importance of donations, noting that many vulnerable people could benefit from items such as warm clothing and blankets.

Ms Batalelwang also said there were people who could benefit greatly from what others could afford to give away and encouraged members of the public to donate. 

Botswana Red Cross Disaster Management Officer, Mr Mompoloki Nawa, expressed gratitude on behalf of the organisation for the donations. He said the contributions would go a long way in assisting disaster-affected communities.

He further revealed that the donations would also be used to support victims of recent natural disasters in Mozambique, expressing sympathy for those affected and appreciation to all collaborating partners for their continued support. ENDS