Waste management is a social, economic, and environmental problem facing all African countries. If the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development is to be achieved, sustainable waste management approaches must be an environmental and public health imperative deserving political priority. Current reasons for the poor management of waste in Africa, include, amongst others, weak organizational structures; lack of appropriate skills; inadequate budgets; weak legislation; lack of enforcement; low public awareness; corruption, conflict; political instability; and lack of political will. At the heart of the problem, is a failure in governance. However, through these gaps, many social and technological innovations have emerged. Innovations that recognize the opportunity that waste provides as a secondary resource. Diverting waste away from dumpsites and landfills towards reuse, recycling and recovery can improve the livelihoods of thousands of informal waste reclaimers, while also creating new jobs and business opportunities for the continent. Reintroducing secondary resources such as polymer, fiber, metals and nutrients back into local value chains has the potential to strengthen manufacturing economies and reduce the economic burden on product imports. Bringing waste under control in Africa and unlocking the opportunities that “waste” provides as “resource” will require immediate intervention by government, business and civil society. While the volumes of waste generated in Africa are relatively small, compared to developed regions, the mismanagement of waste in Africa is already impacting the climate, human and environmental health. Addressing the dangers of poor waste and climate management in Africa requires coordinated efforts from governments, communities, civil society organizations, and the private sector to implement sustainable waste management practices, promote climate resilience, and mitigate the impacts of environmental and climate change. Prioritizing investments in waste infrastructure, renewable energy, clean technologies, and climate adaptation measures can help build a more sustainable and resilient future for Africa. Investing in climate and environmental management in Africa is crucial for several reasons, and partnering in these investments can amplify impacts such as;

Africa is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including extreme weather events, rising temperatures, and changing precipitation patterns. Partnering in climate and environmental management investments can help mitigate these impacts by supporting projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote renewable energy adoption, and enhance climate resilience.

Africa is home to diverse ecosystems that provide essential services, such as clean air, fresh water, and fertile soil, which support human well-being and economic development. Partnering in environmental management investments can help conserve these ecosystems, safeguarding their valuable services for current and future generations.

Africa is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including iconic species such as elephants, lions, and gorillas. However, habitat loss, poaching, and other human activities threaten many species with extinction. Partnering in biodiversity conservation efforts can help protect endangered species, preserve critical habitats, and promote sustainable wildlife management practices.

Water scarcity is a significant challenge in many parts of Africa, exacerbated by population growth, urbanization, and climate variability. Partnering in water resource management investments can improve access to safe and reliable water supplies, enhance water infrastructure, and promote efficient water use practices, benefiting both people and ecosystems.

Agriculture is a vital sector of the African economy, providing livelihoods for millions of people. However, unsustainable agricultural practices, such as deforestation, soil degradation, and chemical pollution, can have detrimental environmental impacts. Partnering in climate-smart agriculture investments can promote sustainable land management, conservation farming techniques, and agroecological approaches that enhance resilience to climate change and protect natural resources.

Access to modern and reliable energy services is essential for economic development and poverty alleviation in Africa. Partnering in renewable energy investments, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power projects, can accelerate the transition to clean energy sources, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.

Many communities in Africa are vulnerable to environmental risks, such as droughts, floods, and desertification, which threaten their livelihoods and well-being. Partnering in community-based environmental management initiatives can empower local residents to adapt to environmental changes, build resilience to natural disasters, and secure sustainable livelihoods through conservation and sustainable resource management.

Climate change and environmental degradation are global challenges that require collective action and cooperation among nations, organizations, and stakeholders. Partnering in climate and environmental management investments facilitates knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and financial support, fostering collaboration at the local, regional, and international levels to address shared environmental concerns. Overall, partnering in climate and environmental management investments in Africa is essential for promoting sustainable development, protecting natural resources, and building resilience to environmental risks. By working together, stakeholders can leverage their resources, expertise, and networks to achieve meaningful impact and create a more sustainable future for Africa and the planet.