Nzambi Matee is a trailblazing Kenyan mechanical engineer, environmentalist, inventor, and entrepreneur who is reshaping the future of sustainable building materials. Driven by her passion for tackling plastic waste and creating solutions that uplift communities, Nzambi has become a true champion of innovation and women’s entrepreneurship in Kenya, the Motherland, and beyond.
Photo credit: David M. Benett/Dave Benett/Getty Images for Women of the Year
At just 29 years old, Nzambi Matee founded Gjenge Makers Ltd, a Nairobi-based startup that transforms discarded plastic waste into paving bricks that are not only stronger than concrete but also more affordable. Thanks to Nzambi’s ingenuity and determination, her company produces 1,500 bricks daily, offering a sustainable and practical alternative for sidewalks, streets, and even low-cost housing.
“It is absurd that we still have this problem of providing decent shelter – a basic human need,” said Matee. “Plastic is a material that is misused and misunderstood. the potential is enormous, but its after life can be disastrous.” Mzambi Matee
Before launching Gjenge Makers, Nzambi Matee studied material science and worked as an engineer in Kenya’s oil industry. In 2017, she took the bold step of leaving her job to pursue her vision. She discovered the perfect combination of plastic and sand through relentless experimentation to create durable, eco-friendly pavers and designed machinery to scale production.
So far, Gjenge Makers has recycled over 20 tonnes of plastic waste into vibrant, high-quality bricks available in colors like red, blue, green, and brown.
These pavers aren’t just sustainable—they’re incredibly strong, holding up to twice the weight of concrete blocks. Nzambi’s innovation doesn’t stop there; her bricks are also 15% cheaper than traditional materials, making them accessible to more people.
The impact of Gjenge Makers extends far beyond recycling plastic.
Nzambi’s company has created over 100 jobs, providing opportunities for garbage collectors, women, and youth groups, empowering communities while addressing environmental challenges.
In 2021 alone, the company recycled 50 tons of plastic and aims to double that figure, with plans to revolutionize the housing market by introducing pavers that can replace traditional bricks and cement.
Nzambi’s groundbreaking work has earned her global recognition. In 2020, she was named a Young Champion of the Earth by the United Nations—a well-deserved honor for someone making such a remarkable difference. in 2022, she was awarded Woman of the Year in London, among many other awards.
Nzambi Matee’s journey is a shining example of the power of women entrepreneurs to drive change, create solutions, and inspire others. She reminds us that with vision, courage, and commitment, we can turn challenges into opportunities and build a more sustainable, inclusive world.
To Nzambi Matee and her incredible team at Gjenge Makers—congratulations on your achievements! Africa, and indeed the world, celebrates your innovation and impact. Keep paving the way forward—quite literally!
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