From waste to wealth: investigating the economic contributions of primary waste scavengers in Yola North Urban Area, Nigeria

Abstract

Poor waste management and extreme poverty are twin challenges that threaten most of the cities of Nigeria including Yola north urban area, presenting waste scavengers as an alternative for solutions. This research paper explores the economic contributions of primary waste scavengers (i.e waste pickers) in Urban Yola North, highlighting their significant contribution in turning waste into money. The paper focuses on how scavenging helps to build a more sustainable urban environment by producing cash, employment, and raw materials for the recycling sector. Drawing on a sample of 205 waste scavengers through surveys and interview, the findings reveal that majority (88.73%) derive economic benefits from their work; in addition to 1.95% presented environmental motivations. More than half of the respondents (54.15%) report a monthly income between N11,000 and N20,000, with smaller proportions earning higher incomes. These findings offer valuable insights into the economic contributions of waste scavengers in Urban Yola North. This research expands our understanding of waste-to-wealth initiatives in similar urban settings, laying the groundwork for broader discussions and strategies to enhance the well-being and livelihoods of waste scavengers, ultimately contributing to sustainable livelihoods in urban centres. The study recommends provision of social security such as social assistance programs and other interventions to reduce their social exclusion, and employer and employee rights should be maintained by law, between the waste pickers and their masters (middlemen) in order to reduce extortion in the industry. Formalization of the occupation will also be considered to improve the nature of their operation and ensure their safety.