The sixth World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF2022), the world’s leading platform bringing together business leaders, policymakers, and experts, is taking place in Rwanda’s capital Kigali this week (December 6-8).

The circular economy offers a new paradigm for business, aiming to drive economic growth through sustainable models. Research by Accenture estimates that it could generate $4.5tr worth of additional input by 2030.

Co-organised by the African Circular Economy Alliance (ACEA), the Republic of Rwanda, the African Circular Economy Network (ACEN) and The Finnish Innovation Fund Sitra, this is the first time the forum is being hosted in the Global South.

It provides a unique opportunity for African countries and international partners to drive solutions aimed at transitioning the global economy toward an inclusive, low-carbon and climate resilient future, while tackling key societal challenges. With a vibrant, young population, and vast natural resources, the continent can position itself as a key actor in this transition.

The forum explores major themes relevant to Africa’s sustainable development, in which circularity can play an important role, including climate change, youth, infrastructure, innovation and entrepreneurship, as well as trade and value chains.

The main event will be broadcast live across five African cities and by studios internationally, offering participants the opportunity to exhibit solutions and engage with a global audience.

This includes a session on connecting the Nordics and Africa on December 8, where solutions from both regions will be shared between WCEF2022 in Kigali and the Nordic gathering in Oslo, to accelerate cooperation and the circular transition.

NABA is proud to be partnering with the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD) Africa 118 on the Digital Launchpad program, aimed at equipping and supporting African SMEs to achieve and sustain success in their businesses by providing them with a comprehensive package of digital tools and expertise (Digital Launchpad) to enhance their competitiveness and access global markets.

This includes a number of companies providing solutions to key development challenges that can contribute to the transition to a circular economy. Investing in, and scaling up such businesses is a key part of driving action and impact.