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The Pan-African Manufacturers Association (PAMA) has cautioned African governments against implementing sweeping bans on single-use plastics, warning that such policies could threaten the continent’s fragile manufacturing base. Instead, PAMA advocates for a balanced approach that prioritizes recycling and circular economy strategies.
In a position paper titled “Africa’s Race to Plastic Ban: An Environmental Necessity or Threat to Local Manufacturing?” PAMA noted that recent plastic bans across Africa, including Nigeria’s phased ban on single-use plastics in federal government offices, may endanger local industries, especially small and medium-scale manufacturers.
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“Dozens of plastic producers in Kenya shut down overnight, without compensation or retraining support,” PAMA stated, citing Kenya’s 2017 ban on plastic bags as an example of a poorly planned transition that led to business closures and job losses.
PAMA emphasized that local manufacturers in packaging and food processing are already facing uncertainty due to the lack of clear transition timelines and support. “The ban on SUPs, without viable, affordable alternatives, has created uncertainty across manufacturing value chains. This could result in factory closures, job losses, and capital flight.”
Instead of blanket bans, PAMA urged African policymakers to adopt a “balanced, industry-sensitive approach” by investing in recycling infrastructure, incentivizing biodegradable alternatives, and harmonizing regulations across borders.
“Africa must treat plastic waste not just as an environmental hazard but as a resource that can fuel new industries, jobs, and income,” the association said. PAMA advocated for the creation of regional recycling hubs backed by enabling policies, technology, and private investment.
The group pointed to successful models like WeCyclers in Nigeria and EcoPost in Kenya, which have shown that plastic recycling can protect the environment while generating employment and innovation. “Recycling is not just environmentalism,” PAMA stressed. “It is industrial policy, job creation, and regional integration rolled into one.”
PAMA pledged readiness to partner with governments and stakeholders to ensure that environmental action does not derail Africa’s industrial ambitions. “Environmental protection and industrial growth are not mutually exclusive,” the association stated. “Africa can lead a green industrial revolution, but only with the right policy mix.
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Jonathan Nwokpor
