The Pan-African Manufacturers Association (PAMA) has called on African governments to prioritize recycling and circular economy strategies over outright bans on single-use plastics, warning that such policies could undermine the continent’s fragile manufacturing sector.
In a statement titled “Africa’s Race to Plastic Ban: An Environmental Necessity or Threat to Local Manufacturing?”, PAMA expressed concern that recent bans — including Nigeria’s phased ban on single-use plastics in federal offices — could hurt small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
“While environmental concerns are valid, the rapid rollout and scope of these bans are putting African manufacturers at risk,” the group said.
PAMA pointed to Kenya’s 2017 ban on plastic bags and Rwanda’s similar measures as examples of poorly managed transitions that led to widespread business closures and job losses. It noted that many biodegradable alternatives remain unaffordable for SMEs.
In Nigeria, Lagos State banned Styrofoam and certain plastics in 2024, with stricter enforcement expected in 2025. PAMA warned that manufacturers, particularly in packaging and food processing, are facing mounting uncertainty due to unclear transition timelines and lack of support.
“The ban on SUPs \[single-use plastics], without accessible alternatives, is disrupting value chains, risking factory shutdowns, job losses, and capital flight,” PAMA said.
Instead of sweeping bans, the association urged a more balanced, industry-friendly approach — including investment in recycling infrastructure, incentives for sustainable alternatives, and harmonised policies across borders.
“Africa must view plastic waste not only as an environmental issue but as a resource to build new industries, generate jobs, and boost income,” the group argued.
PAMA highlighted successful initiatives like WeCyclers in Nigeria and EcoPost in Kenya as proof that recycling can support both the environment and economic growth.
“Recycling is more than environmentalism — it’s industrial policy, job creation, and regional integration,” the group emphasized.
PAMA also called on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to lead regulatory harmonisation efforts and establish a digital platform connecting recyclers, manufacturers, and collectors to ease trade.
Led by interim President Mansur Ahmed and Co-Secretary Segun Ajayi-Kadir, PAMA called for phased implementation of bans, public consultations, and incentives for manufacturers willing to transition.
“Environmental protection and industrial growth can go hand in hand,” the group concluded. “Africa can lead a green industrial revolution with the right policies in place.”
