Is the future of African prosperity circular?
The African continent is at a crossroads.
As one of the fastest urbanising regions in the world, and with an expected population of over 4 billion by 2100, African countries urgently necessitate a socio-economic model of development able to provide increased standards of living for all African people and sustain them in light of the pressing environmental crisis. Without such a model at scale, the prosperity of African communities, cities and societies is at risk.
The quest for what this development model should be is a central topic of discussion in African and international environments alike. Many schools of thought, economic interests, social pressures, community initiatives and country differences influence the direction of the debate, pointing to different paths to walk on. How can long-lasting prosperity be achieved in Africa - by following the industrialised path of so-called ‘developed economies’ or by shaping a self-determined, inclusive and regenerative trajectory?
To contribute to the debate—in this Expert Series—we ask an ecosystem of entrepreneurs, researchers and activists engaged with the circular economy in Africa to share their perspectives on one overarching question:
How can the circular economy contribute to shape an inclusive, prosperous and regenerative development path for the African continent?
Facilitated by Emanuele Di Francesco
July 2020
Recommended links:
World Resources Forum - ‘Tales of Trash: 5 Principles for Inclusive Recycling” (video)
WRF 2021 Conference - Accra, Ghana (World Resources Forum - new date soon)
Circular Africa - Develop circular food systems, green and circular economy in East Africa
Related Content on Circular Conversations:
‘Africa, circular spirit’ - with Murielle Diaco
‘Biomimicry in South Africa’ - with Claire Janisch
‘Circular Kenya - when the magic happens’ - with Wekesa Zablon Wanyama
‘Indigenous knowledge to power global change’ - with Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim
*Picture by Damian Patkowski ‘Sunset tree in Kenya, Africa’ (on Unsplash)