Street Dogs

Street Dogs is an absorbing, character-driven documentary focusing on the lived realities of waste reclaimers in Cape Town. Where people do not acknowledge nor see value in their work, collectors identify a means to make a living. The film sheds light on their lack of recognition, both at a societal and governmental level. They face unceasing discrimination, harassment and humiliation; often referred to as street dogs. Left vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic, informal waste reclaimers were excluded from the government’s response plan. Having received no protection, they are not perceived as essential workers. The film seeks to not only understand their line of work, but the massive role they play in recycling, cleaning communities and saving our planet.