Africa faces a significant plastic waste crisis, with countries like Rwanda, Kenya, and South Africa implementing innovative strategies to combat the issue. These nations are adopting measures such as plastic bans, recycling innovations, and community-driven solutions to address the growing environmental challenge.
Africa’s Plastic Pollution Challenge
Plastic pollution is a pressing concern in Africa, where rapid urbanization and limited waste management systems exacerbate the environmental strain. At the recent United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Kenyan President William Ruto explained the severe impact of plastic waste, particularly on sectors like agriculture and tourism, which lose around USD13 billion annually to pollution.
With over 7 billion tonnes of plastic waste generated globally and plastic production projected to double in the next 20 years, African countries recognize the need for proactive and localized solutions. Without immediate action, plastic waste leaking into oceans is expected to triple by 2040, posing severe risks to marine life and human health.
Legislative Actions Against Plastic Waste
Several African nations have introduced strict legislation to curb plastic waste, with notable success stories. In 2017, Kenya implemented one of the world’s strictest bans on single-use plastic bags, later reinforced by the 2020 National Waste Management Act.
The results have been significant, with an 80% reduction in plastic waste reported since the ban’s inception.
In Rwanda, a 2008 law banning plastic bags has transformed the country’s landscape. Streets once strewn with plastic are now largely free from litter, and Rwanda is lauded as one of the cleanest countries in Africa.
South Africa has also imposed strict levies on plastic bags, using funds generated to support recycling initiatives and incentivize the use of biodegradable alternatives.
Transforming Waste Into Resources
Across Africa, innovative startups are exploring ways to repurpose plastic waste, turning it into construction materials and everyday products.
In Kenya, entrepreneurs have developed eco-friendly alternatives to traditional materials by transforming plastic into paving bricks. These plastic bricks are cheaper, more durable, and highly resistant to weather conditions, providing a viable solution to the country’s housing needs.
Similarly, South African startups are using plastic waste to produce road materials, reducing the reliance on traditional asphalt.
In Kenya, Gjenge Makers, founded by Nzambi Matee, converts plastic waste into durable paving bricks. These bricks are stronger than concrete and provide an affordable building material option. Matee states, “Our product is almost five to seven times stronger than concrete.”
Similarly, Kubik, operating in Kenya and Ethiopia, upcycles hard-to-recycle plastic waste into low-cost, low-carbon building materials. The startup processes approximately 45,000 kilograms of plastic waste daily, contributing to both environmental sustainability and affordable housing solutions.
In Nigeria, Vicfold Recyclers collaborates with communities to collect plastic waste, which is then processed into resins for manufacturing household items. This initiative not only reduces plastic pollution but also creates economic opportunities for local residents.
The social impact of these initiatives is significant. For instance, Kenya’s ClimateWorks program, which has created over 200,000 jobs, shows that environmental projects can drive economic growth while addressing pressing social issues.
By employing individuals in waste collection, sorting, and repurposing, these programs are not only reducing waste but also providing much-needed employment opportunities.
Community-driven solutions
Beyond national policies and startups, local communities are actively participating in the fight against plastic pollution. Community-based waste management initiatives in cities like Nairobi and Cape Town focus on educating the public about the dangers of plastic pollution and encouraging recycling.
Community groups collect, sort, and sell recyclable plastics, generating income and promoting environmental awareness at the grassroots level.
For example, in Burkina Faso, where livestock fatalities from plastic ingestion are common, community leaders are advocating for stricter waste regulations and improved waste disposal infrastructure.
Former Minister Roger Baro has proposed a 5% tax on virgin plastic imports, with funds directed toward environmental projects.
The Need for Global Cooperation
While African nations are making strides in plastic waste management, they still face challenges. Waste management infrastructure remains underdeveloped, and many countries lack the resources needed for large-scale waste processing facilities.
The success of Africa’s fight against plastic pollution will depend, in part, on global cooperation and financial support.
At the UNGA, UNEP’s Executive Director Inger Andersen said that plastic pollution is a “transboundary problem” requiring a collective response.
Andersen explained that African countries, despite their proactive efforts, cannot combat plastic waste alone. The treaty under negotiation, set for finalization in late 2024, is expected to play a key role in this collective effort.
Andersen praised countries like Kenya and Rwanda for their leadership and urged member states to avoid further delays.
The European Union has voiced concerns that delays by certain countries could weaken the treaty, disproportionately affecting regions like Africa. Experts, such as Tunisian economist Fadhel Kaboub, have warned that a weak treaty would force African nations to continue battling plastic waste with limited resources, risking further environmental and public health issues.
