COMESA Secretary General Chileshe Kapwepwe has called on member states to adopt circular economy practices to promote industrialisation, create employment and retain more economic value within Africa.
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Read E-PaperSpeaking at the opening of the COMESA Green Industries Connect forum at the Harare International Conference Centre, Kapwepwe said recycling and reusing materials could open new business opportunities, particularly for small and medium enterprises.
She noted that circular economy models could generate about six million net jobs globally, while international trade in recycled materials, waste, scrap and other secondary goods is already valued at nearly US$300 billion annually.
Kapwepwe said the region was losing economic opportunities because much of its raw materials were exported without processing, limiting the benefits that could be generated locally.
She pointed to the leather industry as an example, noting that although Africa has a substantial livestock population, its participation in the global leather market remains limited because many hides are exported before being processed into finished products.
She also raised concern over low plastic recycling rates, saying fewer than 10 percent of tonnes of plastic waste are recycled.
Kapwepwe said circular economy initiatives could help countries develop local industries, create decent jobs for women and young people, and support businesses already involved in collecting, repairing and recycling materials.
She added that these activities could also create opportunities for informal sector workers while helping communities make better use of available resources.
The COMESA Secretary General further warned that changing regulations in major export markets, particularly the European Union, were creating new requirements for businesses. She said exporters needed to adapt to emerging packaging rules to remain competitive in international markets.
The forum is focused on exploring how circular economy practices can support sustainable industrial development and strengthen the competitiveness of COMESA member states.
Discussions are covering the leather industry, policy frameworks and business models that can attract investment into circular industries.
The meeting is expected to conclude with recommendations and proposed next steps to be presented by COMESA Assistant Secretary General for Programmes, Ambassador Dr Mohamed Kadah.
