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Njau Recycling & Learning Center
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The Njau Recycling and Learning Center in northern The Gambia was founded by Isatou Ceesay, widely known as the "Queen of Recycling." The project began in 1997 as a response to the increasing plastic waste pollution that was killing livestock and damaging the environment. At this center, local women are taught to clean collected plastic bags, cut them into strips, and weave them into purses, mats, and other useful items. This initiative has not only improved sanitary conditions in the village of Njau but also provides women with a sustainable source of income and economic independence. Today, the center serves as a model for environmental education and women's empowerment in West Africa. In addition to plastic recycling, knowledge about composting and organic farming is also shared. The center's success has garnered international recognition, demonstrating how local solutions can effectively tackle global environmental issues.
- Location: Gambia
- Nearby: River Gambia National Park (Baboon Islands) (17 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 25 | 27 | 30 | 32 | 33 | 31 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 25 |
| Rain mm | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 7 | 88 | 191 | 298 | 214 | 65 | 4 | 0 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Visitors can typically explore the center on weekdays during daytime hours. Inside access is granted to workshops where women recycle plastic; arranging a visit in advance is recommended.
Typical hours
The center is typically open during weekday mornings and early afternoons. As a community-driven project, exact hours are flexible; it is wise to call ahead or check with local guides.
Photography
Photography is generally allowed with prior permission; ask staff before taking pictures. The center welcomes respectful documentation of their recycling work, but avoid using flash near workers.
Time needed
A typical visit lasts between one and two hours. Join a guided tour to see the full transformation process; children enjoy the interactive elements, so allow extra time.
Combine with
Combine your visit with a walk through the nearby village to experience local Gambian life. The center is often included in eco-tours that also visit other community projects and markets.
Getting there
The center is in Njau village, reachable by taxi or private vehicle from Banjul or the coast. Public minibuses serve the area but may require a local guide to find the exact location.
Insider tip
Wear light clothing and bring water; the Gambian heat is intense. Purchase recycled crafts directly from the women to support the center - they make excellent souvenirs.
Geography
Facts
- Founded in 1997 by environmental activist Isatou Ceesay.
- The center is located in the Upper Saloum district of northern Gambia.
- More than 50 local women are permanently involved in production.
- Hundreds of kilograms of plastic waste are processed every month.
- The recycled products are exported as far as Europe and North America.
- Isatou Ceesay received the Tällberg Foundation Award for her work.
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Frequently asked questions
What is produced in the center?
Women create bags, purses, and jewelry from plastic waste materials.
Can products be purchased on-site?
Yes, there is a small shop where the recycled goods are sold directly.
Who runs the recycling project?
It is a local women's cooperative started through grassroots initiative.
Can visitors watch the manufacturing process?
Yes, visitors are welcome to watch the women washing and weaving the plastic.
Where exactly is Njau located?
Njau is located in northern Gambia, near the North Bank Road.
Njau Recycling & Learning Center: where is it located?
Njau Recycling & Learning Center is located in Gambia.
Njau Recycling & Learning Center: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
Njau Recycling & Learning Center: why is it worth visiting?
The Njau Recycling and Learning Center in northern The Gambia was founded by Isatou Ceesay, widely known as the "Queen of Recycling." The project began in 1997 as a response to the increasing plastic waste pollution that was killing livestock and damaging the environment.
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Janjanbureh
Janjanbureh, formerly Georgetown, is a historic island town in the Gambia River, known for its colonial past.
Kuntaur
Kuntaur is an important trading town on the Gambia River and the gateway to the River Gambia National Park.
River Gambia National Park (Baboon Islands)
A protected archipelago in the Gambia River serving as a sanctuary for chimpanzees, hippos, and lush jungle vegetation.
Kaur
Kaur is a historic trading town on the north bank of the Gambia River, known for its once-thriving peanut trade.
History & landmarks
Kerbatch Stone Circles
Another significant megalithic site in The Gambia, part of the UNESCO World Heritage listing.
Mungo Park Memorial
A memorial in Janjanbureh dedicated to the Scottish explorer Mungo Park, who explored the Niger River.
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A historic symbol in Janjanbureh marking the spot where liberated slaves gained their freedom.
More places
Nianija Hills
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Baboon Islands
A group of islands where chimpanzees can be observed in their natural environment.
Kuntaur Highlands
One of the few gently rising hilly landscapes in the Gambia, rising above the Gambia River valley.
Kuntaur Groundnut Depot
An important logistical hub on the upper reaches of the river for the transport of the region's agricultural products.
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Kuntaur Rice Mill
One of the largest rice mills in the country, central to processing the harvests from the surrounding floodplains.
River Gambia National Park
This park includes five islands in the river and is famous for its chimpanzee reintroduction projects.
Wassu Stone Circles
The most famous megalithic site in West Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage site, consisting of precisely arranged laterite pillars.
Kaur Groundnut Depot
A historically significant river port and collection point for groundnuts, which are loaded onto barges here for transport to Banjul.