How youth defy unemployment to earn livelihoods through garbage collection in Machakos

Future CBO's chairman Shadrack Mutua (L) with other members pushing a mkokoteni as they collect garbage from residences in Athi River, Machakos county on September 14, 2025./GEORGE OWITI

A group of young people in Athi River, Machakos County, are proving that trash can indeed be treasure.

Members of the Future Community Based Organisation (CBO) in Mavoko constituency have taken up garbage collection as a source of income and a way of keeping their town clean.

When the Star caught up with them on Sunday, they were hauling a handcart full of rubbish collected from local households. The group charges Sh200 per month per household for their services, providing clients with four garbage bags each month at no extra cost.

“There are lots of private companies in Athi River, but most of us youth are jobless. We decided to employ ourselves through garbage collection,” said group chairman Shadrack Mutua.

He explained that the initiative is not only about creating jobs but also about keeping young people away from crime.

“We don’t want to get into crime. We came together as youth to form the CBO so that we can work and earn a living legitimately,” he said.

Future CBO members during an interview with the Star in Athi River, Machakos County, on September 14, 2025./GEORGE OWITI

The group collects waste every Saturday while members pursue other hustles during the week. They also volunteer to clean the Athi River trench near the Export Processing Zone (EPZ) every week, without pay.

Mutua urged landlords, caretakers, property managers, and homeowners to engage them, saying their efforts help promote hygiene and environmental conservation.

“Some of us have families and bills to pay. We just want opportunities to earn a living in a clean and honest way,” he said. He added that many of the members are educated but lack formal jobs.

“Some of us have certificates at home but no work. When we apply, we’re told we need experience. Where will we get experience without opportunities? Engage us to gain it,” he appealed.

The group currently hires handcarts for waste transportation, a cost that eats into their earnings. Mutua called on local leaders, from MCAs to the governor, to support their initiative with tools and equipment.

He also urged fellow youth to steer clear of crime.

“Crime is short-lived. Work together, form a group, and engage in income-generating activities,” Mutua said. For these young people, what others discard has become their path to dignity, survival, and community service.