In a world increasingly affected by climate change and waste management challenges, innovative solutions are essential. Salubata, a Nigerian shoe design and manufacturing company, exemplifies how entrepreneurship can address these pressing issues. Co-founded by Yewande Akinse and Fela Akinse, Salubata has developed an approach that converts plastic waste into affordable footwear, thereby contributing to environmental sustainability and economic empowerment.
The recent NBA Africa Triple-Double Accelerator aimed to support early-stage startups in Africa, providing a platform for innovative ideas that address various challenges, including those posed by climate change. The initiative culminated in a Demo Day where four startups were awarded for their contributions to the tech ecosystem and their potential impact on the continent. Salubata was among the prominent winners, recognized for its commitment to recycling and environmental sustainability.
Salubata’s core mission revolves around tackling plastic waste, which has become a significant environmental concern in Nigeria and globally. The company utilizes recycled plastic collected from waterways and landfills to produce its shoes. This innovative process not only reduces waste but also addresses the urgent need for affordable, sustainable footwear options. According to Yewande Akinse, the company has successfully sold over 6,000 pairs of shoes and has converted 150,000 plastic wastes to shoes, which has directly contributed to mitigating the carbon footprint. Each pair of shoes sold offsets about 145.9 kilograms of CO2, demonstrating the tangible impact of their efforts.
The company’s operations also play a crucial role in addressing climate-related issues in Nigeria, a country that has faced severe flooding due to climate change. By tackling plastic waste, Salubata helps alleviate drainage problems that contribute to flooding, which has affected millions and resulted in significant loss of life. The company’s initiative not only promotes environmental sustainability but also addresses public health concerns linked to stagnant water and waste accumulation.
The entrepreneurial journey of Salubata reflects the broader objectives of the NBA Africa Triple-Double Accelerator, which seeks to empower young entrepreneurs and foster innovation. The accelerator provides startups with mentorship, financial support, and networking opportunities, crucial elements that can help transform ideas into viable business models. For Yewande and Fela Akinse, the recognition from the accelerator signifies not only validation of their business model but also motivation for other startups to pursue sustainable practices.
The accelerator’s awards highlight the importance of innovation in the fight against climate change. Salubata’s approach showcases how businesses can integrate sustainability into their core operations while also generating economic opportunities. By working with local waste collectors, including women who gather plastic for recycling, Salubata creates jobs and promotes community involvement in environmental initiatives. This model not only empowers individuals economically but also fosters a sense of responsibility toward waste management and environmental conservation.
Yewande Akinse emphasizes the significance of community engagement in their operations. “We are aware of the downstream effects of plastic pollution and how it affects underserved communities the most,” she stated. Salubata’s initiatives aim to educate communities about the importance of recycling and the impact of plastic waste on their environment and health. By raising awareness, the company encourages local participation in waste collection, thereby amplifying its impact on the ground.
The modular design of Salubata’s shoes further reinforces the company’s commitment to sustainability. Each shoe consists of a base and interchangeable uppers, allowing customers to personalize their footwear without needing to purchase entirely new pairs. This innovative approach not only reduces waste but also appeals to consumers looking for versatile and affordable options. The design minimizes energy consumption in manufacturing, as the production of a single sole can accommodate multiple styles.
As Salubata expands its market presence beyond Nigeria, reaching consumers in Europe and North America, the company highlights the potential for African startups to influence global markets. The ability to sell products online has enabled Salubata to engage with a wider audience, promoting sustainable practices on an international scale. Yewande underscores their vision: “We consider ourselves a global company.” This perspective reflects a growing trend among African entrepreneurs to think beyond local boundaries and leverage technology to drive change.
The recognition received from the NBA Africa Triple-Double Accelerator on September 25, 2024 comes at a pivotal time for Salubata. As climate change continues to pose significant challenges, the need for innovative solutions has never been more critical. By focusing on recycling plastic waste and promoting sustainable practices, Salubata exemplifies how startups can contribute to addressing these global issues.
In conclusion, the efforts of Salubata, led by young innovators Yewande and Fela Akinse, illustrate the potential of entrepreneurship to drive meaningful change in the face of climate challenges. By converting plastic waste into footwear, the company not only addresses environmental concerns but also empowers local communities and inspires a new generation of entrepreneurs. Initiatives like the NBA Africa Triple-Double Accelerator play a crucial role in supporting such innovative ventures, ensuring that the next wave of African startups are equipped to tackle pressing global issues.
