In the heart of Ibadan, Nigeria, lies a vibrant sanctuary of creativity and sustainability — The Waste Museum. Founded in 2019 by Jumoke Olowookere, this one-of-a-kind space in Africa redefines waste as a resource for artistic and functional innovation. Through her work, Olowookere confronts the environmental challenges posed by Nigeria’s overwhelming waste crisis, transforming discarded materials like plastic, tyres, fabric, and corn husks into captivating art and practical designs.
As a former visual arts teacher, Olowookere’s journey began in her kitchen, where the sheer volume of household waste sparked a pivotal question: Why throw it away when it can be repurposed? Starting with a modest collection of discarded items, she taught herself upcycling techniques, which evolved into a passion for sustainability. Leaving her job at a drilling company, she pursued a mission to inspire others, particularly children, to view waste as an opportunity for creation rather than disposal.
Her museum showcases an array of recycled wonders, from ottoman furniture crafted from worn-out tyres to jewellery made from bottle tops. The lush gardens, nurtured with compost from organic waste, greet visitors, while installations and functional art breathe new life into everyday trash. The space not only serves as a hub for exhibitions but also hosts workshops, inspiring thousands of students and teachers to adopt sustainable practices.
In a country where waste management infrastructure struggles to keep pace with the growing population, The Waste Museum exemplifies the power of individual action to drive collective change. By intercepting waste before it reaches landfills or waterways, Olowookere advocates for a circular economy and a world where sustainability is second nature.
