Rwanda launches circular economy plan

Rwanda has recently taken a major step towards achieving its goal of becoming a carbon-neutral and climate-resilient nation by 2050 with the launch of its first-ever National Circular Economy Action Plan and Roadmap. The plan is designed to provide concrete policy actions and a clear direction for the transition to a circular economy, which is an economic model that aims to keep resources in use for as long as possible by reusing, repairing, refurbishing, and recycling materials and products.

The National Circular Economy Action Plan and Roadmap includes a range of policy interventions and activities across various priority sectors such as waste, water, agriculture, textiles, ICT, transport, and construction. These interventions are aimed at tackling capacity building and collaboration and are selected based on their potential to contribute to national development and their transformative impact on women and young people.

The plan also includes a comprehensive assessment of key economic sectors, examining economic and labor criteria, the policy landscape, and visions, as well as the involvement of women and youth, and the circular economy potential. This assessment aims to identify the most promising opportunities for circular economy initiatives in Rwanda.

Rwanda’s Minister of Environment, Dr. Jeanne d’Arc Mujawamariya, said, “Rwanda is an ideal destination for circular and green investments. With this new National Circular Economy Action Plan and Roadmap, we have a unique opportunity to build a circular economy that works for people and the planet, so we can live in harmony with nature and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.”

The plan aims to place the circular economy at the core of economic decision-making and practice, ensuring the retention of resources, elimination of waste and pollution, and regeneration of natural systems by 2035.