Turning Waste to Wealth: Africa Waste is Wealth Report 2025 Calls for Urgent Action to Unlock the Continent’s Circular Economy Potential
Building on the momentum of the landmark Africa Waste is Wealth Conference 2024, held under the theme “Accelerating Sustainable Initiatives and Highlighting East Africa’s Policy Ambitions,” the newly released Africa Waste is Wealth Report 2025 highlights both the growing urgency of the continent’s waste crisis and the vast, untapped potential of a thriving circular economy.
The report paints a stark picture: Africa generates over 140 million tonnes of waste annually, yet recovers less than 11%. With the right investment, innovation, and policy reform, this waste could generate over USD 8 billion per year, create more than 400,000 jobs, and significantly cut carbon emissions.
Anchored in the commitments and cross-sector partnerships catalyzed at the 2024 conference, the 2025 report reframes waste management as a powerful driver of inclusive, green growth.
Key Insights from the Report:
- Only 11% of waste is currently recovered across the continent
- An estimated 80% of waste is recyclable or organic
- Informal waste workers remain at the heart of recovery systems, yet operate with limited protection or support
- Digital platforms—such as waste mapping tools and online recyclables marketplaces—are transforming how waste is tracked, collected, and monetised
- The lack of coordinated waste policy and rising plastic imports continue to threaten health, environmental, and economic outcomes
Bold Opportunities, Clear Solutions
The Africa Waste is Wealth Report 2025 calls for:
- Adoption and harmonisation of circular economy legislation in the form of the East African Community Prohibition of Manufacturing, Importation, Use and Sale of Single-Use Plastics Bill, 2023.
- Stronger Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) systems.
- Investment in waste-to-value innovations and infrastructure.
- Inclusion and formalisation of informal waste workers.
- Regional cooperation through platforms like the EAC Waste Management Coalition.
The report also celebrates real-world models of success, including TakaTaka ni Mali—a grassroots initiative that is redefining how communities engage with waste through entrepreneurship, public awareness, and digital innovation. Similar innovations are also highlighted, such as plastic credit systems in Kenya, biodegradable packaging in Ghana, and policy breakthroughs in Rwanda.
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