Salubata Showcases Sustainable Innovation at NBA Africa Triple-Double Accelerator Demo Day

On September 26, 2024, the NBA Africa Triple-Double Accelerator held its Demo Day in New York City, coinciding with the United Nations General Assembly. This event highlighted the achievements of ten innovative startups from across Africa, with a particular focus on Salubata, a Nigerian company that has garnered attention for its unique approach to sustainable footwear.

Salubata, co-founded by Yewande Adebowale, tackles the pressing issue of plastic waste through its innovative shoe design and manufacturing processes. The company specializes in producing footwear made entirely from recycled plastic, sourced from waste collected from waterways and coastal areas. This initiative not only addresses the growing problem of plastic pollution but also provides affordable footwear options for consumers.

During the Demo Day, Salubata presented its mission to reduce the global carbon footprint while generating income for local communities. Adebowale emphasized the urgent need for sustainable solutions, particularly in Nigeria, where flooding and environmental degradation have become increasingly severe due to climate change. The recent flooding in Nigeria, which claimed over 600 lives and affected nearly 2.8 million people, underscored the importance of initiatives like Salubata’s in addressing environmental challenges.

Salubata’s production model is notable for its efficiency; the company operates under the principle of “one sole fits all,” which significantly reduces energy consumption in the manufacturing process. Typically, a large portion of energy in shoe production is used for creating soles. By designing a single sole that fits multiple upper styles, Salubata minimizes waste and cuts costs, demonstrating a commitment to both sustainability and economic viability.

The company’s impact extends beyond environmental concerns. Salubata collaborates with approximately 50 waste collectors, including women who collect plastic waste from the streets. This partnership not only supports local economies but also empowers women in underserved communities, providing them with a reliable source of income. According to Adebowale, Salubata has processed over 1 million tons of plastic waste, resulting in a significant reduction of around 145.9 kilograms of CO2 emissions per pair of shoes produced.

Adebowale presented the company’s accomplishments at the Demo Day, highlighting that Salubata has sold over 6,000 pairs of shoes to date. The shoes, which are modular in design, allow consumers to purchase various upper styles to pair with a single base, further promoting a sustainable lifestyle. This innovative model has attracted interest not only within Africa but also internationally, with the company already establishing a presence in Europe and North America.

The Demo Day also featured a panel of industry leaders from the U.S., Africa, and around the world, who evaluated the participating startups based on their potential impact and scalability. Salubata’s commitment to sustainability and community empowerment resonated with the panel, showcasing how African startups can contribute significantly to global environmental efforts.

The event provided a platform for Salubata and other startups to connect with potential investors and partners. As Adebowale noted, the global nature of the audience highlighted the importance of African innovations in addressing worldwide challenges. By participating in the NBA Africa Triple-Double Accelerator, Salubata not only showcased its achievements but also reinforced the narrative that African companies can lead in sustainability and innovation.

In her remarks during the event, Adebowale emphasized the need for sustainable business practices that prioritize both environmental and social responsibility. She expressed hope that Salubata’s model could inspire other entrepreneurs in Africa and around the world to adopt similar approaches. By making sustainability a core aspect of their business, these companies can contribute to a healthier planet and more resilient communities.

The presence of Salubata at such a prominent event underscores the growing recognition of African startups on the global stage. As the world grapples with climate change and its consequences, initiatives like Salubata’s offer viable solutions that address both environmental issues and economic disparities. The company’s efforts exemplify how innovative thinking can emerge from the continent, positioning Africa as a key player in the global sustainability movement.

As Salubata continues to expand its reach and influence, its focus on reducing plastic waste and empowering local communities remains central to its mission. The company’s participation in the NBA Africa Triple-Double Accelerator is a testament to the potential of African entrepreneurs to drive meaningful change and contribute to a more sustainable future.

In conclusion, the Demo Day highlighted Salubata’s innovative approach to footwear manufacturing and its broader implications for sustainability in Africa and beyond. By converting plastic waste into affordable shoes, Salubata not only addresses local environmental challenges but also sets a precedent for how businesses can operate responsibly in a global context. As the company seeks to expand its footprint internationally, it carries with it a message of hope and resilience, demonstrating that sustainable practices can indeed lead to significant societal benefits.