Post by Green Africa Youth Organisation (GAYO)Botswana

GAYO Botswana Celebrates First Cohort of Zero Waste Guardians in Kgatleng West Fifty young people from Kgatleng West graduated yesterday as certified Zero Waste Guardians, completing a five-week training programme hosted by GAYO Botswana at Rasesa Lodge. The initiative equipped participants with hands-on skills in composting, upcycling, recycling, brand auditing, and green business development, all grounded in circular economy principles. The programme was delivered with support from the Kgatleng District Council, Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN), the Local Enterprise Authority (LEA), and the Youth Development Fund (YDF). Delivering the keynote address on behalf of Kgatleng West MP Hon Dr Unity Dow, Administrative Officer Mr Tychicus Mfazi applauded the guardians for taking ownership of environmental challenges in their communities. He noted that the programme speaks directly to national priorities of youth employment and sustainable development, proving that climate solutions can be local, practical, and youth-led. Graduates shared how the training reshaped their understanding of waste, equipping them to turn discarded materials into marketable products and to lead clean-up and awareness campaigns in their wards. Kgatleng District Council Chairman Hon Thabo S Komane urged the guardians to sustain momentum as they roll out pilot waste management projects aimed at reducing landfill pressure and creating green livelihoods across the district. GAYO Botswana extends gratitude to all partners, facilitators, and community leaders who supported this pilot. With 50 trained youth now active, Kgatleng West is positioning itself as a district to watch in Botswana's youth-led climate action movement.