AfDB Launches AfriCircular Innovators Programme to Boost Circular Economy with 30 SMEs

The AfriCircular Innovators Programme supports the African Development Bank's Jobs for Youth in Africa (JfYA) Strategy, which aims to harness Africa’s growing youth population to drive economic growth and address high unemployment rates.

The African Development Bank-supported AfriCircular Innovators Programme has selected 30 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) from Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, and Rwanda for financing and technical assistance to advance circular economy initiatives. The inaugural cohort participated in an online onboarding event on August 9, 2024.

Funded by the African Development Bank's Africa Circular Economy Facility (ACEF) and implemented in partnership with the African Circular Economy Alliance (ACEA), the AfriCircular Innovators Programme aims to foster sustainable and inclusive growth through innovative circular economy solutions. MSMEs, which represent 80 percent of Africa's businesses, stand to benefit significantly, as the circular economy has the potential to create 11 million jobs across the continent.

The selected enterprises will receive support to scale their initiatives within the five "big bets" sectors identified by ACEA: packaging, food systems, built environment, electronics, and fashion and textile. Among the beneficiaries are ventures focused on smart energy metering, using coconut husks in construction, transforming plastic waste into construction blocks, and digitalizing e-waste collection and processing.

Notable participants include Ndintambwe Feeds Limited from Rwanda, which produces affordable animal feeds using insects as a sustainable alternative to soybean and fishmeal. Jean Bosco Nshutiyimana, the company’s founder, highlighted the challenges SMEs face, including limited financial resources and the need for skills to sustain an environmentally friendly recycling business.

Koumbem Fatou Emilienne, representing Siboré Luxury Hair, another selected business, emphasized the program’s benefits: “Joining the AfriCircular Innovators Program is a valuable opportunity for us. It aligns with our sustainability goals and provides the expertise and resources needed to optimize production processes, reduce waste, and improve energy efficiency.”

The AfriCircular Innovators Programme supports the African Development Bank's Jobs for Youth in Africa (JfYA) Strategy, which aims to harness Africa’s growing youth population to drive economic growth and address high unemployment rates.

As the sole Multi-Donor Trust Fund dedicated to mainstreaming the circular economy in Africa, ACEF strategically finances initiatives that promote inclusive and green growth, enhance resource efficiency, and create sustainable job opportunities.