A.P.E. works with the informal garbage collectors of Cairo known as the Zabbaleen (literally meaning garbage collector in Arabic). Our aim is to help this traditionally marginalized group find innovate ways to support the environment and aid themselves. Our focus is on developing environmentally sound waste management and recycling techniques, which help to build the human capacity of the Zabbaleen communities, to "recycle and re-use". Our 25 years of experience working with the Zabbaleen is proof that environmental, social and economic development can go hand in hand. Through the many programs of A.P.E., women especially, have become empowered to build better lives for themselves. Our income generating programs have helped generations of women improve their circumstances.

Cairo is an immense city of 20 million inhabitants. Yet despite its enormous size, the informal sector of Zabbaleen garbage collectors is able to handle at least 40% of the city’s waste. The Zabbaleen do not simply collect and dispose of garbage, rather they are able to recycle nearly 85% of it, a diversion rate that is much higher than most cities in Europe and North America.

A.P.E. is proud to be working with the Zabbaleen towards the goal of Zero Waste.

 

Programs

Child Protection and Development - A.P.E. launched a literacy program in 1989 in a small apartment in Moqattam. This small beginning has grown to include a nursery, a preschool, literacy classes and preparatory tutorial classes for girls who need additional tuition.
Health and support services - A.P.E. runs a comprehensive number of health programs, offering services that directly affect the community.
Recycling Machine Production Unit – This project was started as a way to provide training and employment for marginalized youth. With the help of volunteer engineers, A.P.E. designed a number of machines for use in recycling and environmentally sound solid waste management, which are now manufactured at Katameya. The unit now manufactures 11 different types of machines, and employs young Zabbaleen men who are trained in the construction, use, and maintenance of these machines.
‘Learn and Earn’ Programs – These programs were established first in Moquattam in 1988 and then in Torah in 1999. The idea behind these programs was to provide women with skills that would empower them to earn their own living. A.P.E. provided training to women in both these communities, according to their talents and personal abilities.