Building a global community of solidarity - Monde Xinwa

Monde Xinwa, a waste picker from Makhanda, recently shared his story with the Swedish publication OmVärlden. In the interview, he offered a firsthand account of what it's like to work as a waste picker in the Global South—shedding light on the daily challenges, risks, and dignity within the work.

Through his perspective, Monde brought attention to the often-overlooked role waste pickers play in urban waste systems, especially in cities where formal infrastructure fails to meet the needs of growing populations. His voice adds to a growing global conversation about recognition, justice, and inclusion for informal workers.

The article: "An important, dirty, low-status profession: millions of people globally pick garbage to survive" reflects how Monde struggles every day against poverty and stigma.

"People see you as crazy when you just pick up garbage, and social relationships are difficult. I have become ostracized by the family, my girlfriend and two daughters and do not have many friends."