Event Implementation Report: Technical Deep Dive on Solid Waste Management in Africa

Solid Waste Management (SWM) Challenges in Africa: A Path to Sustainable Solutions

The World Bank's "What A WASTE 2.0" report, funded by the Tokyo Development Learning Center (TDLC) in 2018, paints a stark picture: global waste generation is set to double by 2050, reaching a staggering 3.76 billion tons annually. This surge in waste production is not just a statistic; it's a looming crisis with profound implications for urban sanitation, environmental health, and climate change. Nowhere is this challenge more pressing than in Africa, where recent economic growth forecasts a tripling of waste generation over the next 25 years. This surge is driven by factors such as population growth, rapid urbanization, a burgeoning middle class, and shifting consumption patterns.

Africa faces unique hurdles in managing its waste. Over 90% of the continent's waste is improperly disposed of, leading to the creation of some of the world's largest dumpsites. Solid Waste Management (SWM) initiatives, though essential, strain municipal budgets, often consuming over 20% of funds. Moreover, low collection rates and inadequate treatment exacerbate environmental degradation.

The World Bank is working closely with its African clients to prioritize sustainable waste management. This collaboration spans infrastructure development, governance enhancement, financial support, and capacity building within the sector. The TDLC, a key partner, has since instrumental in disseminating knowledge on SWM, with African clients being among the primary beneficiaries of these exchanges.

Knowledge Sharing to Address the Challenges: The TDLC Approach

The TDLC convened its first regional Technical Deep Dive (TDD) on SWM in Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire from May 27 to 31, 2024. Representatives from 11 countries participated, embracing a "back-to-basics" concept and a pragmatic focus on implementation. The TDD facilitated peer learning through case studies and site visits, drawing on the expertise of the World Bank Urban Team, Japanese expertise and global best practices in SWM.

Central to the discussions were strategies for adapting proven approaches to the African context. The Fukuoka Method, pioneered by Fukuoka City, Japan, emerged as a particularly compelling model for landfill management. Its emphasis on community involvement and the use of locally available materials resonated with participants from Ethiopia, Kenya, and Mozambique.

The regional TDDs represent a vital step towards fostering sustainable waste management solutions tailored to Africa's unique needs. Through collaboration, innovation, and shared learning, we can navigate the complexities of waste management and build a cleaner, healthier future for all.

Opening remarks by SEM IKKATAI Katsuya, Ambassador of Japan in Cote d’Ivoire.

Key Insights and Recommendations

The TDD yielded invaluable insights and recommendations:

• Priority Setting: Waste management must become a top priority, decoupling economic growth from waste generation.
• Incremental Infrastructure: Gradual implementation of SWM infrastructure fosters resilience and sustainability.
• Diverse Solutions: Landfill rehabilitation, alongside exploration of non-landfill alternatives, is crucial for long-term success.
• Financial Sustainability: Sustainable financing mechanisms are imperative for the longevity of SWM services.
• Community Engagement: Strong political will and community involvement are pivotal for driving behavioral change and ensuring SWM success.

Real-world Learning: Site Visits in Abidjan

Participants embarked on illuminating site visits across Abidjan, gaining firsthand exposure to diverse SWM facilities:

• Agban Tractor Grouping Post: A vital hub for waste collection and sorting, optimizing transportation efficiency.
• Anguédédou 2 Transfer Center: Facilitating streamlined waste sorting and temporary storage, enhancing operational efficiency.
• Waste Valorization and Landfill Center Kossihouen: Focused on waste treatment and valorization, minimizing landfill reliance.
• Akouédo Urban Park: A transformative initiative repurposing landfill sites into sustainable urban green spaces, promoting community well-being.

Participant visiting Agban Tractor Grouping Post in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire.

Participants visiting the Waste Valorization and Landfill Center Kossihouen in the outskirts of Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire.

Charting the Path Forward

Armed with additional knowledge, participants resolved to tackle SWM challenges head-on:

• Expanded Coverage: Prioritizing increased waste collection, leveraging private sector engagement, and empowering local communities.
• Policy Strengthening: Enhancing governance frameworks and institutional capacity to support sustainable SWM.
• Political Commitment: Elevating SWM on the political agenda to drive meaningful change.

Closing Remark by Marie-Chantal Uwanyiligira, Country Director, World Bank.

Voice from Participants

Participants lauded the TDD's impact, citing tangible takeaways and actionable insights:

“The TDD experience underscores the need for pre-collection centers and sustainable revenue models—a lesson we're eager to implement in Kampala.”

(Monica EDEMACHU, Under Secretary, Ministry of Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, Government of Uganda)

“The insights gained from Abidjan's landfill management will be invaluable in addressing Dar es Salaam's waste challenges. We're committed to implementing these learnings.”

(Enock TUMBO, Solid waste, Natural Resources and Environment Conservation, Dar es Salaam City Council, Tanzania)