The Zero Waste Africa Forum was launched on October 26, 2026, in Kpalimé, Togo, under the presidency of Professor Dodzi Komla Kokoroko, the Minister in charge of the environment. This event marked Togo's commitment to sustainable waste management and its leadership of the African Chapter of the Zero Waste Initiative.
The forum brought together over 300 participants from Togo and other countries, including local elected officials, parliamentarians, traditional authorities, academics, technical and financial partners, private sector actors, civil society organizations, and young people. This diverse gathering reflects the ambition of the forum, which aims to facilitate dialogue, share experiences, and propose innovative actions.
The main objective of the forum is to establish a common African position on waste management based on the principles of the circular economy. This approach is aligned with the perspective of COP31, scheduled to take place in Antalya, Türkiye, where African territories aim to make their voices heard.
The organizers believe that mobilizing territories is a crucial step towards finding sustainable solutions to environmental challenges. By hosting the launch, Kpalimé positions itself as a space for dialogue and mobilization of local actors, working towards cleaner cities, more circular economies, and a more sustainable future for present and future generations.
The Togolese government has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the multifaceted issue of waste management, emphasizing that concerted action and synergy among stakeholders are the only ambitious, realistic, and sustainable responses. The government has recalled its actions, strategies, and perspectives in this area, highlighting its dedication to finding effective solutions.
The forum serves as a platform for stakeholders to share knowledge, best practices, and innovative solutions for sustainable waste management. Participants are expected to engage in discussions, workshops, and debates to identify key challenges and opportunities for implementing zero-waste strategies in Africa.
Through this initiative, Togo and other African countries aim to strengthen their capacities to manage waste effectively, promote sustainable development, and mitigate the environmental impacts of waste. The Zero Waste Africa Forum is a significant step towards achieving these goals and promoting a culture of sustainability across the continent.
Key points
- The forum aims to establish a common African position on waste management based on the principles of the circular economy.
- Togo has affirmed its leadership of the African Chapter of the Zero Waste Initiative.
- The forum gathered over 300 participants from diverse backgrounds to discuss sustainable waste management.
