At Zaliwa, we believe business should be a force for good. As a social enterprise, we are committed to creating a lasting positive impact on both society and the environment. Our values - circularity, creativity, and conservation - are rooted in sustainability, social change, and ethical practices. We balance profit with purpose, ensuring every purchase supports a better future.

When you buy from Zaliwa, you're making an investment in a healthier planet and a fairer economy. Our artisan-made products are crafted slowly and sustainably in small batches. We cherish traditional craftsmanship and work to ensure these time-honoured skills continue to thrive for generations to come.

Our business goals and vision

We want Zaliwa to drive meaningful change. Through our business, we aim to:

• Reduce plastic and textile waste in regions with little to no formal recycling infrastructure;
• Create solutions that transform waste into beautifully crafted products;
• Provide employment especially in rural communities with limited job opportunities;
• Revive and modernise traditional craft skills, connecting them to the global market;
• Generate jobs within the recycling industry.

Strategic alignment

Our work aligns with six United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• Decent Work & Economic Growth: Supporting fair wages and ethical labor practices;
• Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure: Building a sustainable circular economy;
• Responsible Consumption & Production: Extending the lifespan of materials and reducing waste;
• Climate Action: Cutting carbon emissions through waste repurposing;
• Life Below Water: Helping to keep plastic waste out of oceans and waterways;
• Life on Land: Reducing landfill waste and promoting sustainable land use.

What drives us

People

Waste pollution disproportionately affects the Global South, where limited access to recycling services compounds economic and environmental challenges. Our mission is to tackle waste, foster economic independence, and reduce inequality.

Planet

Plastic can take centuries to break down, leaving vast amounts of waste in our natural environment. Textile waste presents a similar challenge, worsened by the rise of fast fashion. These issues are even more severe in the Global South, where formal recycling systems are limited. We believe consumption habits and material use must evolve - but existing waste also needs a solution. By contributing to material circularity, we help create a healthier planet.

Preservation of Craft

Traditional craft techniques are at risk of disappearing. By supporting artisans, we help create independent businesses and sustainable incomes while supporting the preservation of traditional skills. We believe that craft safeguards cultural heritage, enriching both human history and future generations. Since the industrial revolution, many traditional skills have declined - we aim to protect and celebrate these vital crafts.

Achievements so far....

Africa Collect Textiles

226,171 Kg of textiles collected

1,379,641 tonnes of CO2 saved

200 jobs created

Ocean Sole

Over 1,000 Kenyans employed

Over one million flip flops recycled every year

Over one tonne of styrofoam recycled every month

10-15% of revenue is directed towards beach cleanups, vocational and educational programmes as well as conservation efforts

The Flip Flopi

400,000 kgs waste recovered; 22% reduction in waste entering dumpsites; 389 tCO2e emissions avoided

88,900 kgs waste converted into high quality recycled plastic planks and sheets, creating over 80 unique products including 3 new artisanal dhow boats

32 full time staff and 13 part-time. 42% of staff are female. The minimum wage of The Flip Flopi employees is over 200% higher than the average minimum wage in Lamu

213 young people have attended courses run by Flip Flopi with 40% of participants being female