The Pan-African Manufacturers Association has called on African governments to prioritise recycling and circular economy strategies over sweeping bans on single-use plastics, warning that the growing trend of outright prohibitions poses a major threat to the continent’s fragile manufacturing base.

PAMA noted in a statement that the recent wave of 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.

“While we understand the environmental concerns driving these policies, the pace and scope of bans are putting African manufacturers at risk,” PAMA stated in a position paper titled ‘Africa’s Race to Plastic Ban: An Environmental Necessity or Threat to Local Manufacturing?’

The group cited Kenya’s 2017 ban on plastic bags and Rwanda’s earlier restrictions as examples of poorly planned transitions that led to business closures and job losses.

“Dozens of plastic producers in Kenya shut down overnight, without compensation or retraining support,” PAMA noted, adding that most biodegradable alternatives remain too expensive for African Small and Medium Enterprises.

In Nigeria, Lagos State outlawed Styrofoam and certain single-use plastics in 2024, with enforcement set to intensify by 2025. PAMA stressed that local manufacturers in packaging and food processing are already facing uncertainty due to the lack of clear transition timelines and support.

According to the association, “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, incentivising biodegradable alternatives, and harmonising 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. It 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.”

The manufacturers also urged the African Continental Free Trade Area to drive regulatory harmonisation and create a digital platform linking recyclers, collectors, and manufacturers to reduce trade friction.

The manufacturer’s group, led by interim President Mansur Ahmed and interim Co-Secretary Segun Ajayi-Kadir, called for phased implementation of bans, clear timelines, stakeholder consultations, and public incentives for manufacturers willing to transition.

“Environmental protection and industrial growth are not mutually exclusive,” PAMA stated. “Africa can lead a green industrial revolution, but only with the right policy mix.”

PAMA pledged readiness to partner with governments and stakeholders to ensure that environmental action does not derail Africa’s industrial ambitions.