Africa is embracing a new economic model, one that turns waste into opportunity. African-owned companies are transforming discarded materials into valuable products, creating jobs, and driving sustainable growth.
Here are the top 5 African-founded circular economy companies leading the way:
— Mr. Green Africa (Kenya): Converts post-consumer plastic waste into high-quality recycled materials, integrating informal waste collectors into its value chain through fair trade principles.
— Kaze Green Economy (Burundi): Manufactures eco-friendly charcoal substitutes from agricultural waste and produces energy-efficient cooking stoves from recycled materials.
— Regenize (South Africa): Incentivizes recycling through a mobile platform, offering rewards for waste collection and integrating informal waste collectors into its operations.
— Gjenge Makers (Kenya): Recycles plastic waste into durable building materials like paving blocks and tiles, creating jobs and contributing to affordable housing.
— The Revival (Ghana): Upcycles textile waste into wearable items and building materials, empowering communities and reducing textile pollution.
These African-owned companies are driving the continent’s circular economy. They turn waste into resources, create employment, and promote sustainable development.
This ranking highlights African-founded and African-owned companies active in the circular economy. Selection was based on operational scale, innovation, market impact, and sustainability. Data was compiled from company reports, media coverage, and industry sources, updated as of August 2025.
Image Credit: Disrupt Africa
