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

Social Inclusion and Governance

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:

1. Demonstrate capacity to conduct waste assessments and operational planning

2. Present experience in plastic waste management, recycling, and social inclusion

3. Show capability to develop actionable collection models and scaling plans

4. Include a plan for training, awareness, and monitoring

5. 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.