Waste pickers face socio-economic challenges, health and safety is deprioritized and livelihoods in and around the waste land are threatened.
Salisu Shuaibu, Waste Picker at Gosa Waste Management Facility
Topline
The Health and Safety segment of the documentary would be identified as a topline story as the waste picker reveals stark yet alarming realities. There are plenty of risks which encompass crime, limited access to healthcare owing to financial instability and iron blade cuts. The Waste Picker noted that he has Malaria and Typhoid. He is however not able to treat the illnesses as he lacks access to finances.
Salisu Shuaibu, Waste Picker at Gosa Waste Management Facility
Work and Income
The Waste Picker explains how much he earns on a weekly basis and how necessary it is to collect, “scavenge” for iron and rubber in order to earn more money.
Salisu Shuaibu, Waste Picker at Gosa Waste Management Facility
Work and Income
Salisu explains that he does not wear protective gear and utilises tools such as “Auroro”, iron which is an easier method used to work on the dumping site. He connects with community members to sell his waste collection and often settles on a better price with a customer.
Salisu Shuaibu, Waste Picker at Gosa Waste Management Facility
Rules and Regulations
Waste Pickers are fined 10 000 Naira if they are found working on the dumping site on Sunday’s. They are further obligated to contribute 200 Naira towards an emergency fund which covers health impacts and accidents.
Salisu Shuaibu, Waste Picker at Gosa Waste Management Facility
Limited access to human rights
Salisu notes that if he was given the opportunity to leave the work he would for this reason he tried to apply for a travel license however, owing to limited access to finances he has not succeeded. The waste picker compares the dumpsite to a prison. When the waste pickers report late at the station they are locked up until daybreak and fined.
