The Geo Pomona Waste Management team recently visited the Valorsoul Waste-to-Energy Plant in Portugal, on the sidelines of the International Solid Waste Association (ISWA) Energy Recovery Working Group Meeting, that ended on 19 September, 2025.
The visit marked significant steps, in Zimbabwe’s push, toward sustainable waste management and use of renewable energy. Valorsoul, one of Europe’s leading waste-to-energy plants, demonstrated how modern technology can convert municipal solid waste into renewable energy while reducing environmental harm.
The Geo Pomona team toured the plant’s advanced operations, including waste segregation, energy recovery, and emission control systems that meet international standards.
Speaking after the visit, Geo Pomona CEO and Executive Chairman, Dr Dilesh Nguwaya, said the trip was important for Zimbabwe’s transformation journey.
“Our visit to Valorsoul reinforced that waste is not a burden but a resource. By investing in technology and best practices, Zimbabwe can turn waste into a driver of energy security, job creation, and environmental sustainability,” he said.
Dr Nguwaya added that beyond technology, the visit provided valuable lessons in community engagement and governance.
“One key lesson from Portugal is that effective waste-to-energy solutions require not only infrastructure but also strong partnerships with local authorities, communities and industries. This inclusive approach ensures long-term success,” he said.
He also noted the importance of innovation and adapting solutions to local conditions.
“At Geo Pomona, we are inspired to tailor these global learnings to Zimbabwe’s unique needs. Our focus will be to scale up practical and sustainable solutions that align with national development goals,” said Dr Nguwaya.
The visit comes at a crucial time as Zimbabwe looks for modern ways to manage urban waste and build climate resilience.
Meanwhile, the knowledge gained during the visit will inform the next phase of Geo Pomona’s project, in Harare, reinforcing its role as a model for sustainable waste-to-energy solutions in Africa.
