Five schools in Katlehong and Vosloorus have joined the national Zithande Mzansi Recycling Programme, a partnership between Tiger Brands and Fibre Circle that promotes recycling and income generation in schools.

During a pledge ceremony on October 22, Ikusasalethu, Katlehong, Polokegong, and Manzini Primary School confirmed their commitment to the initiative.

The programme equips schools with recycling tools, training, and educational materials to encourage sustainability. Learners collect and sort waste for sale to local buy-back centres, with proceeds reinvested into school projects and environmental efforts.

The programme forms part of Fibre Circle’s broader effort to promote recycling and improve food security in South African schools.

Fibre Circle, a paper and paper packaging producer responsibility organisation (PRO), also runs an SMME Development Programme that supports local waste collection businesses with mentorship, experiential learning, and coaching.

“The Zithande Mzansi programme aligns with our commitment to nurturing a circular economy by diverting waste from landfill to reduce environmental impact and create shared value through new business opportunities that support inclusive enterprise development,” says Maanda Milubi, enterprise and supplier development and transformation director of Tiger Brands.

He added that the partnership offers a practical way to link environmental education with economic empowerment.

“We are committed to ensuring environmental stewardship and enhancing livelihoods. This partnership allows us to make a tangible difference at a community level by integrating sustainability education into daily school life and helping schools turn recyclables into a source of income, showing learners that environmental awareness can create real economic opportunities.”