On July 18th 2025, the Kenya Climate Innovation Center (KCIC) hosted strategic partners from the IKEA Foundation for a high-level engagement and field visits under the SWIFT Programme (Sustainable Waste Innovation for a Future in Transition).
The visit offered a unique opportunity to reflect on the progress made through the SWIFT Programme, examine key lessons emerging from Kenya’s growing waste management sector, and explore how this partnership can further scale its impact. Through SWIFT, KCIC is working to build a supportive ecosystem for sustainable waste management by empowering enterprises, advancing policy solutions, and promoting circular economy practices across the country.
Bringing Impact to Life
The team visited two SWIFT-supported enterprises: Dulax Enterprises Ltd and Neatworld Services Ltd, to witness firsthand how targeted interventions are translating into measurable results.
Dulax Enterprises Ltd, based in Nairobi, has significantly expanded its recycling capacity with KCIC-facilitated financing that enabled the acquisition of a PP bag-making machine. The equipment processes up to 4 tonnes of plastic waste daily. Currently, Dulax recycles between 1,500 and 1,900 tons of plastic waste each year, converting it into useful products such as damp-proof courses (DPC), garbage bags, and seedling bags.
Neatworld Services Ltd is a non-hazardous waste collection company serving over 150 apartments and hotels in Nairobi. With KCIC’s support, Neatworld automated part of its sorting process, increasing efficiency by 60%. The company also expanded its recycling capacity through the acquisition of a sieving machine, reducing landfill waste and improving resource recovery.
A Model for Scalable Innovation
These enterprises demonstrate the power of tailored support including business advisory, mentorship, access to finance, technology adoption, and policy advocacy in unlocking growth and driving real environmental and economic outcomes. Beyond reducing waste and pollution, they are creating green jobs, enabling sustainable livelihoods, and contributing to a cleaner, more resilient Kenya.
Strengthening Strategic Partnerships
KCIC’s collaboration with the IKEA Foundation continues to be a cornerstone in advancing climate-smart innovations. This visit reaffirmed the shared commitment to move beyond isolated interventions and drive systemic change in Kenya’s waste sector.
“Partnerships like this are what turn ideas into lasting impact,” said Joseph Murabula, CEO, KCIC. “We’re proud of what we’ve achieved through SWIFT, and we’re even more excited for what’s ahead.”
As the SWIFT Programme continues to expand, KCIC remains committed to catalyzing solutions that promote circularity, sustainability, and inclusive green growth, powered by strong partnerships and bold innovation.
