African waste forum in Kpalimé

On Monday, October 26, 2026, the city of Kpalimé in Togo hosted over 300 environmental experts, officials, and stakeholders from across Africa to address the growing challenge of waste management in urban areas. The event aimed to foster collaboration and identify sustainable solutions tailored to local needs.

Forum linked to COP31 preparations

The forum, led by Togolese Environment Minister Dodzi Komla Kokoroko, was organized to prepare African nations for their participation in COP31, the upcoming United Nations climate conference to be held in Antalya, Turkey. It provided a platform for sharing strategies and aligning efforts on waste management.

Participants from diverse backgrounds

Attendees included local government representatives, parliamentarians, traditional leaders, academics, private sector companies, civil society groups, and youth. Their goal was to examine current waste management practices and explore ways to improve them across African cities and regions.

Focus on circular economy principles

The discussions emphasized the importance of adopting a circular economy model, which prioritizes reducing waste, reusing materials, and recycling resources. This approach aims to minimize environmental impact and promote sustainable development across the continent.

Community involvement highlighted

Local communities were identified as key players in waste management due to their direct role in handling waste on the ground. The forum stressed the need for partnerships between residents, local authorities, businesses, and organizations to enhance waste collection, processing, and resource recovery.

Togolese initiatives supported by EU

In Togo, a project called Waste Management and Decentralization (GEDEC), funded by the European Union with 4.2 million euros (or nearly 2.8 billion CFA francs), is being implemented in five communes. This initiative supports efforts to improve waste management infrastructure and practices in these areas.