Ibrahim Tamba

Sierra Leonean inventor revolutionizing plastic waste management through textile innovation

Ibrahim Tamba's 2017 invention of the Plastic2Fabric machine has transformed waste management in West Africa. Growing up in Freetown, he witnessed the devastating impact of plastic pollution on the Atlantic coast and local ecosystems. While studying mechanical engineering at Njala University (2008-2012), he began developing prototypes that could convert discarded plastics into reusable textiles.

His breakthrough came in 2016 with the first functional machine that shreds plastic waste into yarn, creating durable fabrics used for bags, uniforms, and construction materials. The process recycles 98% of input materials and reduces plastic waste volume by 75%. By 2023, his company Waste2Wear SL had processed over 12 million kg of plastic, creating jobs for 300+ women in Sierra Leone and Liberia.

Tamba's technology was featured in the BBC's "African Innovators" series, leading to partnerships with Coca-Cola West Africa and UNDP. His modular machines are now deployed in 18 countries through a social enterprise model where 50% of profits fund community recycling programs. In 2021, he launched the "Plastic for School Fees" initiative, allowing students to exchange recyclables for educational credits.

A 2022 TEDx talk "From Trash to Treasure" showcased his vision for circular economies. His collaboration with MIT's D-Lab produced a solar-powered version of his machine, reducing energy costs by 60%. Tamba's innovations were cited in the 2023 UN Environment Programme report as a best practice for post-conflict waste management, particularly in regions like Sierra Leone's former mining areas.