Circular Innovation: Establishing a Circular Economy Excellence Center in Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa as Ethiopia’s capital and economic powerhouse is experiencing fast population growth, to a large part from people drawn to the city by its economic opportunities. The city’s slowly developing infrastructure struggles to manage the increasing amount of waste generated. This causes many challenges, with inefficient waste collection and management leading to pollution of life supporting natural resources. Plastic waste in particular is causing long-term environmental harm. This is expected to intensify in the coming years, with projections indicating a 5% annual increase in waste generation. 

To address this issue, a Center of Excellence for a Circular Economy is currently under development on the outskirts of Addis Ababa. This is led by the Addis Ababa Cleansing Management Agency (AACMA) and supported by the Partnership for Circular Value Chains with technical assistance from Soil and More Ethiopia. Through the partnership, the Natural Resources Stewardship Programme (NatuReS) is providing support for the architectural designs and a comprehensive master plan which includes environmental and social impact assessments. This initiative marks a major step toward promoting sustainable resource use, protecting natural resources from pollution caused by unmanaged waste, and embedding circular economy principles in the region’s development.

Supporting the Transformation to a Circular Economy in Ethiopia

The center is envisioned as a central hub to foster research, demonstrate and transfer knowledge on circular economy practices, technologies, and business models to drive innovation for sustainable solutions. 

• Implementing and demonstrating circular economy practices: Practical provision of different waste management systems, including recycling, composting, and pollution reduction 
• Education and innovation: Offering training courses for stakeholders along the value chain, expert services and acting as technology transfer station for the circular economy 
• Engaging the private sector: A core goal of the Center of Excellence is to drive the shift toward a circular economy by actively engaging the private sector in transforming waste management practices. By showcasing cutting-edge technologies and their economic viability, the center aims to inspire circular business models that reduce waste, generate local employment, and contribute to a broader socio-ecological transformation.

Public-private partnerships are central to the center’s approach. As a flagship initiative aligned with Ethiopia’s national circular economy roadmap and the national plastic strategy and action plan, the center will play a critical role in achieving the country’s transition goals. 

Towards a Holistic and Sustainable Circular Economy Hub

The center, located in Bole Arabssa, follows a broader vision of sustainability – integrating social, environmental, and economic considerations. Beyond promoting efficient waste management and circular economy practices, the concept also emphasizes the restoration and protection of local ecosystems. Planned features include rainwater harvesting systems, riverbank rehabilitation, and urban agriculture zones – enhancing climate resilience, supporting biodiversity, and improving livelihoods for surrounding communities. This holistic approach reflects the center’s ambition to serve as a model for sustainable urban development and demonstrates the transformative potential of circularity in Ethiopia and beyond.

Complementing the vision for innovative waste solutions, the potential for utilizing Black Soldier Fly (BSF) technology at the Center has been specifically explored. A rapid assessment conducted by one of our partners, the ACEN Foundation, confirms the site’s suitability for BSF application, underpinning the Center’s role as a prospective location for demonstrating and advancing this effective organic waste valorisation method within Addis Ababa.

Unlocking Potential Through Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration

The Center of Excellence is a key initiative under the Partnership for Circular Value Chains in Addis Ababa. During the partnership’s recent general assembly, stakeholders from across the sector came together to align on the next steps in the design process. The meeting underscored the importance of strong stakeholder collaboration to turn the vision of the center into a reality – mobilizing collective expertise and commitment to advance circular economy solutions in Ethiopia.

“This center will be a hub for research, innovation, and capacity building in circular waste management practices. It will serve as a platform for stakeholders from all sectors to collaborate, develop and implement circular solutions, and promote resource efficiency across the city. We believe that this center will play a pivotal role in driving the transition towards a truly circular economy in Addis Ababa”

Dr. Eshetu, Director of the Addis Ababa Cleansing Management Agency

To address expressed stakeholder interest and ensure the long-term operational success of the facility, a comprehensive business model and financial plan is currently being prepared, as a key component of the ongoing operationalisation of the center. This strategic planning will detail the financial modalities and operational framework for the center’s diverse activities and technologies, providing essential clarity for potential investors and partners, thereby bolstering the foundation for its sustained impact.

For more information or to get engaged in the center, please reach out to the Partnership for Circular Economy in Addis Ababa.