The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) and the European Union (EU) have launched a new €40 million Circular Economy Programme for the East and Southern Africa region. The initiative, known as the “SWITCH to Circular Economy in East and Southern Africa (SWITCH-2-CE in ESA),” aims to facilitate the transition from a linear to a circular economy while promoting sustainable business practices and impact investments. The agreement was signed in Lusaka by Ambassador Karolina Stasiak, Head of the EU Delegation to Zambia and Special Representative to COMESA, and COMESA Secretary General Chileshe Kapwepwe.
The SWITCH-2-CE in ESA initiative will target the development of the Packaging & Plastic Waste and Electronics & E-Waste value chains within the COMESA region. The programme is designed to address environmental degradation, improve resource efficiency, and reduce waste and pollution. By focusing on these sectors, the initiative seeks to enhance the sustainable sourcing of critical raw materials in East and Southern Africa.
During the launch, Ambassador Stasiak highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, “Our joint regional programmes have been instrumental in addressing key issues, such as trade facilitation, market access, infrastructure development, and capacity building. These initiatives have not only strengthened our partnership but have also contributed to upgrading lives and increasing prosperity in our regions.”
The dialogue, attended by ambassadors and EU member state representatives, also addressed aligning priorities and discussing ongoing and new cooperation projects. The EU reaffirmed its commitment to promoting sustainability, green and digital transformation, and economic resilience through the Global Gateway Strategy, European Green Deal, Digital Strategy, and the Africa-EU Partnership.
COMESA Secretary General Kapwepwe expressed commitment to deepening the partnership with the EU. “This Strategic Dialogue provides an opportunity to review the progress and effectiveness of ongoing EU programmes within the COMESA region, explore potential areas for future cooperation, and align our strategic goals,” she said.
The EU and COMESA have a long-standing partnership aimed at fostering regional integration, trade facilitation, and sustainable economic growth across the region.