In the heart of Nyamira County, Ekerenyo Ward in Nyamira North Sub-county, a remarkable transformation is taking place. The Bwokerere Women’s Group has embraced the principles of the Circular Economy, turning waste from banana production into valuable resources. Through innovation and determination, they are redefining what it means to create sustainable livelihoods while caring for the environment.
Transforming banana waste into opportunities
Bananas are a staple crop in the region, but their production often results in significant waste, from peels to pseudo-stems. Where others see waste, the Bwokerere Women’s Group sees potential. By applying Circular Economy principles, they are maximizing the value of every part of the banana plant.
Their initiatives include:
- Banana wine (Litoke wine): The group ferments ripe bananas to produce a popular local wine, generating an additional income stream.
- Fiber extraction: Pseudo-stems, often discarded as waste, are processed to extract strong, versatile fibers that can be used in crafts, textiles, and ropes.
- Banana flour: Peels, previously seen as useless, are dried and ground into nutritious banana flour, which is used in baking and other culinary applications.
- Banana crisps: The group transforms banana fruits into delicious, ready-to-eat crisps, a product loved by both locals and visitors.
Aiming for sustainability and prosperity
The Bwokerere Women’s Group’s work embodies the ideals of a Circular Economy—reducing waste, reusing materials, and creating new value from by-products. By doing so, they aim to:
- Reduce environmental footprints: Diverting banana waste from landfills helps lower pollution and contributes to a cleaner environment.
- Enhance income: Value-added products like wine, crisps, and flour provide members with diversified income streams.
- Lower resource dependency: By reusing and repurposing banana by-products, they reduce reliance on external resources.
Empowering communities through circular practices
Beyond the economic and environmental benefits, the group is also fostering a sense of empowerment among its members. By mastering new skills and exploring innovative uses for banana waste, they are building a future rooted in self-reliance and creativity.
The Bwokerere Women’s Group is not only a shining example of how to apply the Resource-to-Waste-to-Resource Economic model but also a testament to the power of community-driven innovation. Their story serves as inspiration for other regions seeking sustainable ways to improve livelihoods while preserving the environment.
As they continue to expand their operations and explore new possibilities, the Bwokerere Women’s Group is proving that with the right mindset, even waste can bloom into wealth.
