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Our Story
Building a Future Where Waste is a Solution

At Upcycle Africa, we believe in turning challenges into opportunities. Our journey began in 2015, with a groundbreaking idea: using discarded plastic bottles to construct homes and empowerment spaces. The inspiration came from a project at Jangu International, where we built the first plastic bottle houses. What started as a community-driven initiative to create beautiful, eco-friendly homes soon revealed its potential to address housing challenges in marginalized communities across Uganda.
Motivated by this success, Johnmary Kavuma and David Monday decided to scale this innovative solution, driven by their shared passion for environmental sustainability and their commitment to improving lives.
Together, they laid the foundation for what would become Upcycle Africa, a movement for environmental conservation, community empowerment, and sustainable development.

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Since 2015,
Waste to Wealth.

A Timeline of
Innovation and Impact

A Vision Is Born

Community construction of the first plastic bottle houses at Jangu International.
Focused on creating homes and empowerment spaces while tackling waste pollution.

2015
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Gaining Momentum

Additional houses constructed, attracting groups eager to learn about the process.

2016
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Skills Development

A dedicated team was formed and trained to specialize in building homes from plastic bottles.

2017
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Officially Upcycle Africa

Legally acquired the Upcycle Africa name and began constructing eco-friendly homes on a larger scale.

2018
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Business Model and Growth

Developed a robust business model, formalized the company, and expanded the team to drive operations.

2019
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Partnerships and Recognition

Partnered with organizations to scale our work, gained international attention, and secured local construction deals.

2020
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Expanding Across Africa

Exported the solution to other African countries.
Empowered youth and women through training programs such as “Trash to Fuel” initiatives.

2021
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Deepening Community Impact

Focused on training women and youth to transform waste into valuable products.
Reinstalled the team with a renewed commitment to creating social and environmental impact.

2022-Present
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Upcycle Africa
Our Impact So Far

Our innovative solutions have positively impacted over 2.7 million lives across Sub-Saharan Africa. From affordable housing to empowering wastepreneurs, we continue to transform waste into opportunities. 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.

Our Partners

Our work wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of our partners. Together, we’re driving meaningful change.