Durban, 13 November 2025 – The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), led by MEC Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, in partnership with HEINEKEN Beverages, has officially launched the Mavavela Glass Recycling Facility — a multimillion-rand investment situated in Queensmead Industrial Park, Durban.
This initiative marks a significant milestone in public-private collaboration, aimed at advancing environmental sustainability, stimulating local economic development, and generating much-needed employment opportunities within the recycling sector.
Delivering the keynote address at the launch, MEC Buthelezi commended HEINEKEN Beverages and Mavavela Projects for their partnership in establishing a facility that not only promotes waste reduction but also contributes meaningfully to job creation and the growth of the green economy.
“As government, we are deeply concerned about unemployment, particularly among the youth. Initiatives such as the Mavavela Glass Recycling Facility demonstrate the impact that can be achieved when business and government work together,” said MEC Buthelezi.
“We would like to see similar glass recycling facilities established in rural towns such as Port Shepstone, Ladysmith, uLundi, uMgungundlovu, and Mpangeni to revitalise local economies and foster sustainable livelihoods. This project serves as a pilot, and we hope it will evolve into a model replicated across KwaZulu-Natal,” he added.
MEC Buthelezi further emphasised that the provincial government, through COGTA, remains committed to supporting such partnerships via Local Economic Development (LED) and Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) initiatives, particularly those focused on waste management and community-based enterprises.
Mr Eric Leong Son, Head of Sustainability at HEINEKEN Beverages, highlighted the company’s dedication to building a circular economy and empowering local entrepreneurs.
“At HEINEKEN Beverages, we believe sustainability is not only about the environment, but also about people and communities,” said Leong Son.
“We chose to collaborate with Mavavela Buyback Centre because of their passion, family-driven leadership, and proven impact on local recyclers. Together, we are transforming waste into opportunity and helping to close the loop in the glass recycling value chain.”
Mr Ngidi, CEO and founder of Mavavela Buyback Centre, shared that the partnership with HEINEKEN Beverages has been transformative for both his business and the surrounding community.
“This company is named after my grandfather, and today I run it with my children,” said Ngidi, who has already employed over 20 staff members.
“HEINEKEN has helped bridge the gap between us and major glass companies, enabling us to supply them with quality recycled glass. With the involvement of COGTA, I am confident that our business will expand and create even more opportunities for others.”
The facility is equipped with advanced glass crushing and sorting technology and operates as a buyback centre where local recyclers can exchange collected glass for income. It is expected to significantly enhance recycling capacity in the eThekwini area, while reducing landfill waste and curbing illegal dumping.
MEC Buthelezi concluded by reaffirming the provincial government’s commitment to fostering partnerships that promote environmental protection, economic growth, and social inclusion.
“Through projects like this, we are demonstrating that by working together, we can build a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous KwaZulu-Natal.”