Kinawataka Women Initiatives (KIWOI) in Uganda recycles used straws into crafts such as bags, mats, and jewelry to reduce the amount of discarded plastic waste. The organization focuses on working with marginalized women and youth to produce these products. To date, the organization has trained over 7,940 women & 6,000 youth across Uganda to create these crafts and products, helping these people to gain more income opportunities along with recycling large amounts of plastic that otherwise would harm the region's environment.

In Uganda, more than 600 tons of plastic are thrown away each day. With no formal waste collection, over 90% is sent to landfills or burnt illegally. Plastics are a problem for the nation since they end up in the rivers and lakes. During the rainy season, the flowing water can also dredge up waste, such as plastic water bottles or polythene bags.

The Kinawataka Women Initiatives (KIWOI) was established in 1998 to empower oppressed women in Kampala's Kinawataka slum through environmentally friendly economic projects. To minimize the amount of recycled plastic waste, KIWOI recycles used straws into crafts such as containers, mats, and jewelry. Kinawataka Women's Initiative participants knit recycled plastic straws in their homes as a source of income for their families. KIWOI also distributes reusable bags to stores in Kampala as part of its environmental program to encourage recycling in the region.

By making reusable and sustainable bags next to educating community groups on the benefits of recycling, KIWOI's work has had a positive environmental effect in Uganda. To date, the organization has trained over 7,940 women and 6,000 youth across Uganda to be able to create products made from used straws, increasing their income levels and opportunities.