Our Correspondent | Africa Guardian
Africa must transition to a “just and inclusive circular economy model” to stimulate sustainable development, create jobs, and reduce the strain on its natural resources. This was the resounding message from experts and representatives attending a two-day workshop in Port Louis, Mauritius, organized to review a Circular Economy Action Plan.
Nassim Oulmane, Chief of Section at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), emphasized the transformative potential of moving away from the traditional linear “take, make, dispose” model. He highlighted that adopting a circular economy could tackle Africa’s growing waste management challenges, unlock an annual market opportunity worth $8 billion, and drive economic diversification across the continent.
“Transformation toward a circular economy must be coherent, decisive, and visionary,” Oulmane stated. He underscored its alignment with the global Pact for the Future, which seeks to integrate social, economic, and environmental dimensions of sustainable development.
The circular economy also offers innovative solutions to rethink production and consumption patterns while preserving marine and terrestrial ecosystems. This approach is vital for securing a resilient and inclusive future for generations to come, Oulmane noted.
Tailored Approaches and Regional Collaboration
To support this transition, Africa needs continental frameworks customized to its specific challenges and opportunities. Oulmane stressed that successful implementation of the Circular Economy Action Plan would require coordinated efforts among stakeholders across the region.
At the workshop, organized in collaboration with the African Union Commission (AUC) and the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC), representatives discussed innovative financing mechanisms to support a blue and circular economy for African and Indian Ocean Island States.
Raj Mohabeer, Officer in Charge at the IOC, described the circular economy as a powerful tool for fostering sustainable growth, reducing ecological footprints, and improving population well-being. “Our African islands have an opportunity to lead by example, demonstrating how economic growth can align with environmental preservation to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030,” Mohabeer said.
He called for a regional financing mechanism to enable “multi-actor” and “multi-country” initiatives, transcending national boundaries to address shared challenges.
Driving the Transition: Key Initiatives and Frameworks
Lisa Singh, the United Nations Resident Coordinator for Mauritius and Seychelles, emphasized the importance of comprehensive climate action plans and financing strategies to drive the circular economy transition. Singh announced the launch of an Experts Working Group on the Circular Economy, which will develop and implement regional strategies and projects.
Caroline Tagwireyi, Senior Mitigation Officer at the AUC, highlighted the vital role of the blue economy in Africa’s sustainable development. She pointed to the continent’s vast coastline and marine resources, stressing the need to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution in alignment with Agenda 2063, the Paris Agreement, and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Tagwireyi noted that Africa’s blue and circular economy has immense potential to transform the continent, offering practical solutions to environmental and economic challenges.
Initiatives Supporting the Transition
ECA, in collaboration with the IOC and other partners, is spearheading efforts to develop a Circular Economy Action Plan and financing mechanisms for the region. These efforts include initiatives like the Great Blue Wall, which focuses on preserving marine biodiversity and promoting sustainable coastal management in East African islands and coastal states. Additionally, ECA is working with the African Island States Climate Commission to establish carbon markets and integrate them into broader economic frameworks.
By embracing a circular and blue economy, Africa can achieve sustainable growth, reduce its reliance on natural resources, and ensure a prosperous, resilient future for its people and ecosystems.
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