Open Call: Strengthening Plastic Waste Collection Systems in Djibouti

Deadline: 09-Apr-2026

UNICEF Djibouti is seeking associations or NGOs to conduct an analytical study and develop an operational plastic waste collection chain to support a recycling plant. The initiative focuses on waste management, environmental protection, social inclusion, and sector scaling, aiming to collect at least 5 tons of plastic waste per day through sustainable and inclusive systems.

About the Opportunity

UNICEF is inviting qualified partners to assess, plan, and design a sustainable plastic waste collection and supply chain in Djibouti. The initiative aims to address inefficient waste management, low recycling rates, and environmental pollution while creating inclusive opportunities for women, youth, migrants, and informal waste collectors.

Objectives

The project focuses on:

Structuring a plastic waste collection and supply chain
Conducting analysis of waste production and composition
Mapping actors and waste flows
Developing collection, sorting, storage, and transport methods
Promoting social inclusion of vulnerable groups
Ensuring occupational health and safety
Establishing traceability and quality control
Planning for scaling up the sector and market diversification
Implementing training, awareness, and monitoring systems
Supporting climate action and environmental protection

Why This Matters

Djibouti generates approximately 86 tons of plastic waste daily, but only a small share is recycled. Major challenges include:

Illegal dumping
Weak collection systems (especially in Balbala)
Limited recycling beyond PET plastics
High plastic share in household and commercial waste streams

A structured collection system is critical to improve recycling rates, reduce environmental pollution, and create inclusive economic opportunities.

Scope of Work

The selected partner will:

Conduct detailed assessments of plastic waste sources, types, quantities, and seasonal variations
Map formal and informal actors in waste collection and recycling
Assess existing infrastructure and practices
Propose operational collection models ensuring at least 5 tons/day to a recycling plant
Design collection, sorting, storage, and transport systems
Identify incentive mechanisms (purchase by weight, source separation, equipment support)
Analyze economic flows from markets, supermarkets, ports, schools, businesses, and military bases
Implement participatory assessments, surveys, and waste characterization
Develop pilot and expansion scenarios for scaling the sector

The project emphasizes:

Involvement of women, youth, migrants, and informal waste pickers
Training, awareness, and occupational safety
Governance and contracting models for risk mitigation
Environmental and social safeguards

Expected Deliverables

Diagnostic report on waste sources, flows, and actors
Mapping of collection points and stakeholders
Detailed operational plan for waste collection and supply
Action plan for sector scaling and market diversification
Training and communication strategy
Monitoring and evaluation indicators
Recommendations for regulatory compliance and risk management

Monitoring and Performance

Performance will be tracked through:

Regular reports and coordination meetings
Field visits and observations
Satisfaction surveys for beneficiaries and stakeholders
Key indicators including:
- Volume of plastic collected
- Plastic quality
- Level of social inclusion
- Awareness activities conducted
- Reduction of plastic waste in the environment

How to Apply

Interested associations or NGOs should:

Demonstrate capacity to conduct waste assessments and operational planning
Present experience in plastic waste management, recycling, and social inclusion
Show capability to develop actionable collection models and scaling plans
Include a plan for training, awareness, and monitoring
Submit an expression of interest (EOI) through UNICEF’s official channel

Conclusion

This UNICEF initiative provides a unique opportunity for organizations in Djibouti to improve waste management, boost recycling, and promote social inclusion. By establishing a sustainable plastic collection chain, the project supports environmental protection, inclusive livelihoods, and sector growth, while ensuring 5 tons of plastic waste are consistently supplied to a recycling plant.

For more information, visit UN Partner Portal