In a heartening display of innovation and environmental consciousness, a Kenyan company is turning plastic waste into practical solutions, proving that the adage “one person’s waste is another person’s treasure” holds true.
On a typical February morning along the shores of Mombasa, a group of women can be seen diligently collecting plastic waste. Little do they know, their efforts are contributing to a remarkable initiative aimed at tackling two pressing issues: plastic pollution and the need for sustainable cold storage solutions.
The collected plastic waste is not destined for a landfill, but rather finds its way to Kuza Freezer, a pioneering company based in Mombasa. Here, dedicated employees transform the discarded plastic into pellets, which are then moulded into innovative cold storage units.
These eco-friendly freezers come equipped with a rechargeable battery powered by solar panels. With just a two-hour charge, they can operate for up to seven hours, providing essential cold storage capabilities to small-scale businesses in the fish value chain.
Purity Gakuo, CEO of Kuza Freezer, emphasizes the company’s mission to empower local businesses while addressing environmental concerns. “We are focused on providing cold storage solutions to small-scale businesses in the fish value chain and enabling them to sustainably improve their income and reduce post-harvest losses,” she explains.
In its three years of operation, Kuza Freezer has made significant strides, delivering over 350 machines to various customers, including fish traders, poultry and milk vendors, and ice salespeople. The company offers a range of freezer options, from static units for fishing boats to portable models suitable for motorbike delivery services.
One such innovation is a 70-litre capacity freezer designed to mount onto the back of a motorbike, facilitating the efficient transportation of perishable goods like fish. Kuza Freezer goes above and beyond by providing free installation and training to its customers, ensuring they can make the most of their investment.
To further enhance customer satisfaction and product reliability, each freezer comes equipped with a tracking device, allowing the company to monitor performance and address any maintenance needs promptly.
Despite the advanced technology and environmental benefits, Kuza Freezer remains committed to affordability and accessibility. The freezers are priced at Ksh 100,000 ($700), with flexible payment options available to accommodate the needs of their diverse customer base.
For many entrepreneurs and business owners, investing in a Kuza Freezer is not just a purchase—it’s a strategic decision that promises long-term sustainability and prosperity. As Kuza Freezer continues to expand its reach and impact, it serves as a shining example of how ingenuity and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand to create positive change.