In the bustling Merkato market of Addis Ababa, a group of dedicated waste collectors known as “korale” work tirelessly, scavenging for discarded items such as jerry cans, old electronics, and other recyclable materials. These individuals restore, repurpose, and recycle the waste they gather, turning what was once trash into valuable products, all while earning a modest income.
For Dereje Enigdamekonen, 45, becoming a korale has been a lifeline. After a year in the trade, he makes a living by purchasing reusable waste and reselling it for a profit. “I buy anything that can be reused,” he explains. For every kilogram of scrap metal he collects, Dereje earns around 40 birr (roughly $0.30 USD). He is just one of the many waste collectors in Merkato who follow a similar routine, combing the streets for materials that others might discard.
Tamirat Dejene, 21, focuses primarily on collecting plastic. He typically makes between 500 and 1,000 birr ($4 to $8.50 USD) per day from his efforts. His work not only supports his livelihood but also helps to address a growing environmental concern in Ethiopia’s capital. Addis Ababa produces approximately 400,000 tonnes of waste every year, according to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). While the city’s official waste management system handles about 70 percent of it, the remaining 30 percent would likely clog streets and overwhelm landfills if not for the informal recycling network.
For some korale, the recycling process leads to innovative business opportunities. Biruk Shimeles, 31, collects scrap metal to produce aluminium stoves. These stoves are not only sold in Addis Ababa but also exported to neighboring countries such as Sudan, Djibouti, and Somalia. “This work doesn’t just help clean the community—it turns waste into a business opportunity,” Biruk says proudly.
The korale are an essential part of Addis Ababa’s recycling ecosystem, playing a vital role in reducing pollution and creating sustainable livelihoods. Their efforts showcase how informal waste management can contribute to environmental preservation and economic empowerment. While their work often goes unrecognized, it is clear that they are a critical force in supporting the city’s sustainability goals.