Our Journey
Our History
From a student observation about illegal dumping in 2019 to a growing Durban South waste recovery operation — the story of Inland Waste Group.
The Idea Takes Root
While studying Accounting at Durban University of Technology in Pietermaritzburg, founder Njengenkosi Dube observed widespread illegal dumping — particularly glass bottles. Engagement with beverage manufacturers and glass producers exposed the need for practical local collection and recovery services.
Over 16 months of remote study during the COVID-19 period, Njengenkosi saved approximately R80,000 to fund the start-up of a waste recovery business.
Inland Waste Group Founded
Inland Waste Group was founded in late 2021. A parallel entity, Gauteng Waste Recycling, was established to pursue a four-site agreement covering Pikitup landfill sites in Johannesburg. The founder secured the agreement, built experience buying from informal collectors and mobilised operations.
Setback and Resilience
A vehicle collision caused an approximately three-month repair interruption. Continuing premises costs placed pressure on cash. The founder settled outstanding supplier obligations before suspending the Gauteng operation.
The experience reinforced the importance of vehicle reliability, cash reserves and focused geographic operations — lessons that shaped the current business model.
Bluff Operation Established
The current operational base at the Bluff Garden Site in Durban South was established. The business built experience buying from informal collectors, secured supplier-provided container infrastructure from Mpact, TGRC and the ROSE Foundation, and grew to support four positions including the founder.
Monthly gross receipts stabilised at R50,000 to R56,000, providing a reliable operating base for the next phase of growth.
Two-Year Expansion Plan
The two-year business plan (1 October 2026 to 30 September 2028) targets consolidation of the Bluff operation, capital mobilisation of R500,000, and the launch of a standalone buy-back centre in October 2027.
The expansion aims to add six new roles — with inclusion targets for women, youth and people living with disabilities — and reach 40 tonnes per month throughput by April 2028. The plan was prepared for the Standard Bank SMMME Development Programme business pitch.