East African countries have launched a new Circular Economy Platform to strengthen cooperation on waste management, recycling and the efficient use of resources as the region faces a rapidly growing waste challenge.Uganda’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs, Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, who chairs the East African Community Council of Ministers, officially launched the platform during the East Africa CEO & Investment Forum 2026 held in Nairobi, Kenya.
The initiative brings together governments, businesses, investors, civil society organisations, universities and other stakeholders to develop coordinated approaches to circular economy policies and Extended Producer Responsibility programmes across the East African Community.The move comes after waste generation in the region increased sharply from about 90 million tonnes in 2010 to 180 million tonnes in 2023. The figures were presented by Gift Gabriel Mbuya of the East African Business Council, highlighting the growing pressure on countries to improve waste collection, treatment and recycling.The presentation also showed that only around 10 percent of waste generated in the region is currently recycled, while between 40 and 60 percent remains uncollected. The situation has raised environmental concerns but has also created opportunities for investment in recycling, waste collection, resource recovery and other businesses based on the circular economy.The platform will work towards harmonising policies and improving cooperation among EAC member states.
It will provide a space for producers, importers, retailers, brand owners, waste-management companies and informal-sector operators to engage with governments, regulators, civil society and academic institutions.Its activities will be built around four areas, including stakeholder policy dialogue, knowledge development and management, technical advisory services and coordination. The platform will also provide guidance on EPR systems, share successful approaches and provide information on legal requirements and possible financing opportunities for circular economy projects.EABC Vice Chairperson Simon Kaheru said the private sector was ready to move from discussions to practical action. The initiative is expected to strengthen regional value chains and public-private cooperation while creating opportunities for investment, innovation and job creation as East African countries seek to transform growing waste volumes into economic and environmental opportunities.
