
Context
The urban population in Africa is increasing at a faster rate than any other continent (3.5 per cent per annum). Although waste generation is currently lower in Africa than in the developed world, subSaharan Africa is forecast to become the dominant region globally in terms of total waste generation if current generation trends persist. Waste generation in Africa, like in other developing regions in the world, is driven by population growth, rapid urbanization, a growing middle class, changing consumption habits and production patterns, and global waste trade and trafficking. The African Union has called on African cities to commit to recycling at least 50 per cent of the urban waste they generate by 2023 and to grow urban waste recycling industries. According to the Kenyan NDC, waste contribute significantly negligible amounts of emissions. The country aims to achieve a low carbon, climate resilient development pathway. Kenya will continue to implement the NCCAP (2013-2017), and subsequent action plans beyond this period to achieve this target. This involves coming up with Sustainable waste management systems as a mitigation measure.
According to Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Action on a circular economy solid waste management approach for urban areas in Kenya, waste management is a major challenge in Kenya, especially in Nairobi, the rapidly growing capital. Nairobi produces around 2,400 tons of waste every day, of which only 38 per cent is collected and less than 10 per cent recycled (JICA, 2010). The remaining 62 per cent is left on illegal dumpsites and next to houses or burned.
CTCN Support
Assess the current status of the integration of the concept of circular economy and to develop a draft roadmap:
- key stakeholders and current initiatives;
- the circular economy value and definition of benefits, weaknesses, opportunities and challenges in the country;
- identify potential projects that can be prepared and scaled-up as a follow-up of this technical assistance.
Expected Impact
Focus on the climate benefits originating from a circular economy model will help in the implementation of the National Determined Contributions (NDCs) and the achievement of the goals of the Paris Agreement. As an outcome of the circular economy roadmap supported by the CTCN, at least one pilot project will be selected carrying high potential to be implemented as a follow-up of the technical assistance.