Embracing the “circular economy” will be Africa’s best bet at leapfrogging into the next industrial revolution as key players. For a long time, Western economies have been built on the “take, make, dispose” model, a linear system that fueled growth during and after the industrial revolution. However, as consumption soared, so did waste. Since 2016, the world has generated 2 billion tons of municipal solid waste annually, and by 2050, that figure is projected to reach 3.4 billion tons. Advanced economies, while only 16% of the global population, produce 34% of the world’s waste. Africa stands at a crossroads to redefine global economic leadership through the lens of the circular economy. By transforming its abundant renewable resources and harnessing the energy of its vibrant youth (60% under 25), Africa can become a powerhouse of sustainable innovation. Africa”s Renewable Energy Might: As of 2024, Africa’s total renewable energy capacity reached nearly 67 GW. The African Union aims for 300 GW by 2030, more than quadrupling current levels. Africa holds 60% of the world’s best solar resources. In 2024, the continent added 2.5 GW of solar, bringing the total to 19.2 GW, with 23 GW more projected over the next four years. Current installed wind capacity stands at 9 GW, with 140 planned projects totaling 86 GW, almost ten times today’s capacity. Africa added 2 GW of wind in 2023, reaching 39 GW in total, but this is just 10% of its potential. In East Africa, geothermal power makes up 23% of Kenya’s installed capacity. Africa needs robust partnerships to scale investments and enable technology transfers to position Africa as the circular growth leader Franco Bonghan Co-Chair African & Caribbean Energy Network #circulareconomy #africarising #renewableenergy #thetimeisnow #sustainabledevelopment #greengrowth #innovation #cleantech #partnershipforgrowth #nextindustrialrevolution