UN Sustainable Development Goal No. 8 seeks to promote inclusive employment and decent work for all. Empangeni’s local Thuthukani Adult Workshop (TAW) makes its contribution towards this goal by providing protected work to adults living with intellectual disabilities. Started over 25 years ago, the TAW provides these adults with occupation and care in a secure environment whilst affording them the dignity of contributing meaningfully to their families and society. For more information on TAW or to help support their work, visit www.thuthukani.org.za.
One of the longest serving workers at TAW, now proudly operates the paper shredder. The waste and paper recycling project which started in 2016, changed his life transforming him into a valuable role-model and leader who assists others.
TAW is a registered recycler and can issue destruction certificates for confidential shredding. Businesses are encouraged to consider TAW when needing to dispose of old business or private archives. Shredding paper is an excellent activity for these workers and provides much needed funding for their stipends.
Funding to relocate and expand the premises is currently TAW’s greatest need. Recyclable waste being separated outside the main building due to a lack of space.
The Perfecto Plastics project assembling components used in electrical installations. This project employs 110 people at TAW. TAW is constantly on the lookout for new suitable projects that can provide dignified employment to people with intellectual disabilities, as many more adults still wish to join the programme.
A local private citizen showing his support for the project by delivering waste to be sorting and recycled.
Sorted waste being loaded for transport and sale to Mpact Recycling. The Thuthukani Turnaround Project collects recyclable waste material from various businesses, residential waste drop-off areas and kerbside collections around Zululand. Mpact is a valuable partner in this project providing a point of sale as well as technical, managerial and financial support. Residents are urged to support this recycling project where possible as it makes a valuable local environmental and social contribution.