Who We Are
Our Mission and Vision
Upcycle Africa is not just a social enterprise—it is a transformative movement dedicated to addressing Africa’s waste crisis through innovative and sustainable solutions. Since our inception in December 2018, we have been at the forefront of turning plastic waste into valuable resources, including eco-friendly building materials, while empowering marginalized communities. By combining environmental conservation with social impact, we are redefining waste management and creating a future where sustainability and opportunity go hand in hand.
Our Roots
Founded by Johnmary Kavuma after mentorship from the Social Innovation Academy (SINA), we’re based in Mpigi Town, Uganda. Guided by the motto “Waste to Wealth”, we strive to create a cleaner, greener, and more equitable future for all.
OUR IMPACT
Houses Contructed
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Waste Recycled
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Job Created
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Award Won
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Carbon Emission
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Waste Recycled
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Enterprises Empowered
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Countries Reached
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Why We do What we do
Addressing Critical Issues
Our work tackles some of the most pressing challenges of our time:
01
Plastic Waste Crisis:
Globally, 91% of plastic waste remains unrecycled, with 12.7 million tonnes polluting our oceans every year. In Uganda, 600 tons of plastic waste are mismanaged.
02
Housing Deficit:
Uganda has a 2.4 million housing shortage, leaving many without safe shelter. Among them, 1.5 million refugees urgently need sustainable, affordable homes.
03
Youth Unemployment:
With 4.5 million young people unemployed in Uganda, we are tackling this crisis by creating green jobs through recycling, upcycling, entrepreneurship and innovation.
Our Purpose
We empower communities to reimagine plastic waste as a catalyst for positive change
Our Reach
Where We Work
Upcycle Africa has constructed eco-friendly homes in multiple African countries, including:
Through our labor-based approach, we provide marginalized groups with skills to repurpose waste, fostering sustainability and self-reliance.
Uganda
Nigeria
Tanzania
Ghana
South Africa
Zimbabwe
Johnmary Kavuma
The heat we feel today is the result of choices made yesterday. If we don’t act now, tomorrow will be even hotter.
Core Values
Our Ethos
At Upcycle Africa, our work is driven by a strong set of core values that shape every decision, project, and interaction. These principles define who we are, guide our approach, and ensure we stay true to our mission of transforming waste into wealth.
Join Our Mission
Get Involved
Help us create a better future for communities and the planet: But we’re just getting started! Join us as a team member, mentor, or partner, or support our programs with a donation. Together, we can build a cleaner, greener future.
Join Our Community
Our Partners
Support Behind the Scenes
Our work is powered by the generosity and collaboration of our incredible partners. Together, we transform waste into wealth and lives into success stories.
