THE European Union (EU) has announced a €40 million ($44 million) funding initiative to support countries within the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) in transitioning to a circular economy. The funding is part of the SWITCH to Circular Economy (SWITCH-2-CE) programme, which aims to drive sustainability and green transformation across key sectors, including plastics, textiles, and electronics.
The SWITCH-2-CE programme, which also benefits from strategic support by the EU, is designed to foster ‘sustainability, green, circular and digital transformation’ within these industries. The programme’s objectives include skills development, job creation, and the promotion of sustainable consumption and production practices. It also aims to encourage sustainable business models and eco-friendly technologies, improve policy frameworks and regulatory environments to attract green investments and innovation, and strengthen the capacity of government and civil organisations to embed sustainability into their operations.
‘The SWITCH-2-CE initiative will help reverse environmental degradation, recover natural capital, improve resource efficiency, and reduce waste and pollution,’ stated the EU in its announcement.
This investment by the EU is a significant step towards supporting COMESA countries in adopting circular economy principles, which emphasise reducing waste, reusing materials, and recycling resources to create a more sustainable and resilient economy. The programme is expected to make a substantial impact on environmental conservation and resource efficiency in the region, while also fostering economic growth and job creation through green innovations.
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