Isatou Ceesay

A Gambian environmentalist who pioneered plastic waste recycling initiatives in West Africa.

Isatou Ceesay, often called the 'Queen of Plastic Recycling', revolutionized environmental activism in Gambia by transforming plastic waste into economic opportunities for women. Born in 1972 in N'jau, she witnessed firsthand the environmental degradation caused by plastic bags clogging waterways and harming livestock. In 1997, she co-founded the N'jau Recycling and Income Generation Group, teaching women to collect plastic waste and crochet it into reusable bags, mats, and jewelry.

Her work not only reduced pollution but also empowered marginalized women economically. Ceesay’s efforts gained international recognition through the book One Plastic Bag, inspiring global conversations about sustainable development. She later expanded her projects to include solar energy training and organic farming, proving that grassroots innovation can drive systemic change. UNEP highlights her as a model for community-led environmental solutions.