Kenya has called for greater adoption of circular innovation as Africa accelerates its transition to clean energy and renewable technologies.
Principal Secretary for Forestry and Climate Change Festus Ng’eno made the remarks at Strathmore University during the CEPREC Kenya International Summit 2026, which brought together researchers, innovators, policymakers, industry leaders and development partners.
Held under the theme, “Sustainable Futures Reimagined: Sustaining Africa’s Clean Energy System through Circular Innovation, Inclusion and Impact,” the summit focused on strengthening sustainable approaches to Africa’s clean energy transition.
Ng’eno said the transition should go beyond installing and deploying renewable energy systems, urging stakeholders to address the management of solar panels, electric vehicle batteries, power electronics and other equipment at the end of their useful life.
He noted that Kenya generated an estimated 56,000 tonnes of electrical and electronic waste in 2025, with volumes continuing to rise annually.
According to Ng’eno, the growing waste challenge presents opportunities to recover valuable materials, establish new industries and create employment through reuse, repair, refurbishment, remanufacturing and recycling.
He said the government is strengthening policies and regulations, including the Sustainable Waste Management Act, Climate Change Act and Extended Producer Responsibility Regulations.
Ng’eno urged Kenyans to champion sustainable energy solutions and make responsible energy choices in communities, institutions and workplaces.
