(Ecofin Agency) - • The circular economy could create 7 to 8 million jobs globally, says ILO report
• Countries like Ghana, Benin, and Burundi are investing in local crafts and skills training
• Circular projects blend job creation, environmental protection, and social inclusion

The circular economy is quickly gaining ground in Africa as a smart way to fight waste, protect the environment, and create jobs. A 2023 report from the International Labour Organization (ILO) says 7 to 8 million new jobs could be created around the world through activities that reuse, recycle, and restore everything from old clothes to scrap metal and broken electronics.

But growing this kind of economy means developing new skills. Across Africa, several local programs are already working to meet that challenge.

In Ghana, the Dodowa training center, working with local partner Geolicrafts, is training up to 2,000 people in traditional craft skills like woodworking and straw weaving. The project aims to create 490 direct jobs within two years of completion, with a strong focus on employing women and young people from rural areas.

In Benin, the government launched a new action plan to support the circular economy, backed by the African Development Bank. The goal is to strengthen the country’s artisan workforce by training 2,676 people in 2024—up from 1,720 in 2023. The program covers a wide range of practical skills, including food processing, auto mechanics, and plumbing. It targets 1.8 million informal workers across the country who could benefit from more structured and professional training.

The circular economy is not only about jobs—it is also about sustainability. In Dakar, the Soweto Village art studio turns recycled materials into export-quality artwork, mixing traditional African craftsmanship with modern design.

In Burundi, Hyacinth Art House, a social enterprise founded by Kathia Gretta Iradukunda, transforms water hyacinth—an invasive plant from Lake Tanganyika—into handmade goods like baskets and lamps. This helps protect the lake’s ecosystem while also creating income for women and young people in nearby communities.

Still, even with promising examples, many of these emerging jobs in the circular economy remain loosely structured. Training is essential not only to improve craftsmanship but also to make sure artisans work safely and produce high-quality goods. In Benin, vocational centers like the Evangelical Center for Professional Training (CEFoP) in Parakou and the Girls' Training Center in Nikki are helping to raise standards and give the sector more structure.

Events like the International Handicrafts Fair of Ouagadougou (SIAO) also play an important role. They give artisans a chance to learn, exchange ideas, and reach international markets. These kinds of platforms are key to building a more connected and professional artisan economy.

Looking ahead, the circular economy holds big potential for Africa. The United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) says it could create up to 11 million jobs across the continent. To get there, countries need to invest in training, improve supply chains, and encourage innovation. With the right policies and support, local initiatives can help build a fairer, greener, and more resilient future.