Circular Economy, Solid Waste Management and ESG in Sub-Saharan Africa A comparative analysis of entrepreneurship and policy in Nigeria and South Africa

This research explores how startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Sub-Saharan Africa engage with and contribute to circular economy practices. It also pays particular attention to the context of solid waste management (SWM) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations. The study investigates how entrepreneurial activity across various industries aligns with circularity principles, sustainability regulations, and waste-related challenges. As circular economy and ESG frameworks gain traction globally, understanding how SMEs in emerging economies navigate and implement these systems is essential. In addition, rapid urbanization, demographic growth, and increasing consumption have intensified the challenge of developing sustainable waste management systems. Closely linked to SWM is the promotion of responsible production and consumption practices. The research focuses on Nigeria and South Africa, which represent two of most populous and economically influential countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. Through a qualitative methodology based on secondary data, including academic literature, policy reports, and case studies, this research identifies the financial, regulatory, and technological factors that shape entrepreneurial engagement with circularity. The findings aim to offer policy-relevant insights into how entrepreneurship can support more inclusive and sustainable waste management and governance ecosystems in Sub-Saharan Africa.

This research explores how startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Sub-Saharan Africa engage with and contribute to circular economy practices. It pays also particular attention to the context of solid waste management (SWM) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations. The study investigates how entrepreneurial activity across various industries aligns with circularity principles, sustainability regulations, and waste-related challenges. As circular economy and ESG frameworks gain traction globally, understanding how SMEs in emerging economies navigate and implement these systems is essential. In addition, rapid urbanization, demographic growth, and increasing consumption have intensified the challenge of developing sustainable waste management systems. Closely linked to SWM is the promotion of responsible production and consumption practices. The research focuses on Nigeria and South Africa, which represent two of most populous and economically influential countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. Through a qualitative methodology based on secondary data, including academic literature, policy reports, and case studies, this research identifies the financial, regulatory, and technological factors that shape entrepreneurial engagement with circularity. The findings aim to offer policy-relevant insights into how entrepreneurship can support more inclusive and sustainable waste management and governance ecosystems in Sub-Saharan Africa.