Jolis Nduwimana founded WEGE Company, an innovative enterprise that turns agricultural and paper waste into eco-friendly packaging in Burundi. Photo: WEGE Company
By Adonis Byemelwa
The Respondent Senior reporter recently had a Q&A session with Jolis Nduwimana, the dynamic founder of WEGE Company, whose remarkable journey showcases how personal tragedy can ignite transformative change. After losing his father to violence, Jolis turned grief into action, launching an innovative venture that tackles the urgent issue of plastic pollution by creating eco-friendly packaging from agricultural waste. His inspiring rise from a struggling “Karani” to a trailblazer in Burundi's green economy illustrates the resilience of young entrepreneurs and their crucial role in shaping a sustainable future.
Q: What inspired you to start WEGE Company and how did your journey as an entrepreneur begin at such a young age?
The tragic loss of my father to a senseless act of violence in 2017 ignited a fire within me. As the eldest in a family of small-scale farmers, I felt the weight of responsibility to support my siblings' education. After graduating high school, I faced countless job rejections, which pushed me to Bujumbura, where I worked as a “karani” for two years.
It was during this time that I witnessed the heart-wrenching consequences of plastic pollution firsthand. I lost three of our cows to plastic waste, and it was a wake-up call. This experience motivated me to think creatively about solutions to this pressing issue. After much struggle and hardship, I founded WEGE Company in 2021, driven by a vision to turn waste into eco-friendly packaging and promote a green economy in Burundi.
Q: Can you explain the specific processes involved in transforming banana waste, paper waste, and rice straw into eco-friendly packaging solutions?
At WEGE Company, our process is straightforward yet innovative. First, we collect banana waste, paper waste, and rice straw from local farmers and waste management companies, followed by sorting these materials by type and quality. Next, we clean the raw materials to ensure purity, then process them into pulp, suitable for molding.
Once we have our pulp, we mold it into sustainable packaging products, conducting rigorous quality control checks to ensure they meet industry standards. Finally, we distribute the finished eco-friendly packaging materials to our customers. This journey from waste to product embodies our commitment to sustainability.
Q: What challenges have you faced in establishing and growing WEGE company and how have you overcome them?
Establishing WEGE Company came with its share of challenges. Starting with zero capital was daunting, but I turned to pitch competitions nationally and internationally. These platforms helped me connect with impact investors who value sustainability, allowing me to secure the funding needed to propel my business forward.
Another hurdle was developing the technology to process agricultural waste efficiently. Collaborating with tech experts was crucial in refining our production processes. Their guidance ensured that our packaging materials were not just innovative but also high-quality and competitive in the market.
One of the WEGE’s workers treats the raw materials at the production site. Photo: WEGE Company
Q: How does the circular economy model you advocate for contribute to environmental sustainability in Burundi and beyond?
The circular economy model is at the heart of our mission at WEGE Company. By transforming agricultural and paper waste into eco-friendly packaging, we significantly reduce landfill waste and minimize pollution. Our approach not only repurposes waste but also curbs the release of harmful gases like methane during plastic decomposition.
Supporting local farmers through sustainable resource management, we advocate for practices that reduce chemical reliance and foster biodiversity. Our biodegradable packaging decomposes naturally, unlike single-use plastics that linger for years, contributing to pollution.
Moreover, WEGE Company creates jobs, fueling economic growth while tackling environmental issues. Our initiatives empower communities and promote resilience, establishing a model for sustainability in Burundi.
Some of WEGE’s workers standing with packaging in their hands. WEGE Company
Q: What role do you believe young entrepreneurs play in addressing social and environmental issues in Africa?
Young entrepreneurs are the heartbeat of innovation in Africa, and essential for addressing social and environmental challenges. Their adaptability and openness to new ideas enable them to tackle pressing issues like waste management, pollution, and climate change. By harnessing local resources and traditional knowledge, they can create impactful businesses that drive sustainable development and inspire change across the continent.
Q: What lessons have you learned from your participation in the Africa's Business Heroes (ABH) prize competition program and how have they influenced your approach to business?
Participating in the ABH Prize competition has been transformative. Engaging with fellow entrepreneurs and mentors highlighted the importance of partnerships; collaboration amplifies the impact and sparks innovative solutions. The program reinforced the need for sustainable practices and encouraged me to integrate eco-friendly materials into my business model.
Continuous innovation became a focal point; I now prioritize research and development to enhance product efficiency and sustainability. Additionally, the program instilled a commitment to creating social value alongside economic gains, leading me to adopt a community-focused approach that benefits local farmers and promotes environmental awareness.
Q: What insights can you share about the value of the ABH program for entrepreneurs across Africa and how can they benefit from participating in future editions?
The ABH program is a goldmine for entrepreneurs across Africa. It provides not just financial support, but also mentorship and invaluable networking opportunities. Participants gain access to best practices, potential investors, and insights from industry leaders, all of which enhance their business acumen and operational strategies.
In future editions, entrepreneurs should leverage the program’s resources, including workshops and training sessions aimed at scaling their businesses and amplifying their impact. It’s an opportunity to grow, learn, and contribute to a sustainable future.
Q: How has your participation in the ABH program impacted your business and your vision for the WEGE company?
The impact of my participation in the ABH program on WEGE Company has been profound. The mentorship and resources provided through boot camps have allowed me to refine our business model and operational strategies significantly.
Being part of this network has broadened my horizons, connecting me with entrepreneurs and experts who enrich my understanding of business. This experience has solidified my vision for WEGE Company, driving me toward a future where sustainability and community engagement are at the forefront of our mission.
