African Twist of Circular Economy: Insights, Policies and Recommendations

ABSTRACT While the circular economy ( CE ) has gained traction, this paper argues that mainstream CE approaches risk being misaligned in the African context. Drawing on a mixed‐methods synthesis of empirical studies, policy documents and cross‐country examples, the study shows that Africa's CE transition is fragmented and uneven, leaving the continent at a critical crossroads. Although some countries (Rwanda, Ethiopia, Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa and Morocco) have adopted ambitious measures, large‐scale implementation is constrained by limited recovery infrastructure and technical capacity, weak financing, geopolitical instability, low consumer demand and socio‐cultural resistance. These barriers create a polarised African CE landscape. Study findings reveal that CE transitions in Africa follow multiple, contextually grounded pathways shaped by scarce resources, dense informal economies, plural actor networks and political constraints. To achieve equitable, effective CE transitions in Africa, sustained political leadership, coordinated multistakeholder action and context‐sensitive policies that integrate informal actors, mobilise blended finance and monitor social and material impacts are essential. The study concludes with theoretical and policy suggestions to guide future research and practice in African CE transitions.