News & Blog

Winners

1. The Circular Economy Campaign/Community Action of the Year Award

Winner:  Nyayo Estate Residents Association (NERA)

They have spearheaded the very first circular economy model estate in Nairobi through segregation of the waste at the source since 2020 and successfully redirecting over 75 000 Kgs of plastic and 42,000 kilos of electronic waste (e-waste) from ending up in landfills.

1^st Runners Up: Volunteer Service Overseas (VSO) Waste to work Project

A youth led startup with a vision of creating decent jobs in the waste recovery and value addition, empowering 1031 waste pickers so far. They have partnered with Takataka Solutions to expand their operations and to construct buy-back centers in a moved aimed at empowering the vulnerable waste pickers from exploitation by middlemen.

2^nd Runners Up: Toto Mazingira

A dynamic, youth driven environmental group based in Taita Taveta, Kenya. This inspiring group has taken lead inpromoting circular economy practices and community led climate action, through their dedication to cleaning up and repurposing waste materials.

2. The Circular Economy’s Most Innovative Project of the Year Award

Winner: Together for Better Foundation

Their flagship solution towards a sustainable approach to menstrual health management is the reusable sanitary pads. Throughout the manufacturing of these reusable pads, meaningful employment has been generated. The reusable pads are designed to be super absorbent, reduce leakage, and offer better protection and comfort for up to 2 years of regular use.

1st Runner Up: The Flip Flopi Project

 A pioneering East African movement dedicated to ending single-use plastic pollution and promoting a circular economy. Since 2019, they have been making waves with their recycled plastic sailing dhow, raising global awareness about plastic pollution and inspiring communities to adopt sustainable solutions. By working with coastal communities to recover and recycle waste plastic, they are creating a positive impact and empowering local artisans to build sustainable livelihoods.

2^nd  Runner Up – Insectipro

An innovative insect farm sustainably producing insect products for the masses. Their mission is to make Africa food secure with the help of insects. Since 2018, they have recycled over 16,000 tones of waste, 10,000 tones of carbon offset, 4,000 acres covered by their fertigro fertilizer and more than 4,500 farmers trained on their products.

3. The Circular Economy Best EPR Scheme of the Year Award – PAKPRO & KEPRO

Since the inception of discussions on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in Kenya, a select group of companies and industry leaders have proactively embraced this transformative concept, positioning themselves at the forefront of sustainable waste management. As the regulatory landscape evolved, culminating in enacting the Sustainable Waste Management Act in 2022, two organizations emerged as pioneers in the Kenyan EPR scene: Kenya Producer Responsibility Organization (KEPRO) and Packaging Producer Responsibility Organization (PAKPRO).

Despite operating in a challenging environment, these organizations have made significant strides in implementing EPR schemes and driving positive change. Their tireless efforts and innovative approaches have set a high bar for the industry. Regulations 2024, a level playing field has been

4. The Circular Economy Technology Disruptor of the Year Award

Winner: Safaricom

It is the largest company as measured by revenue in 2023 that is equally committed to environmental sustainability and social responsibility. The company has implemented various initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, including high waste recycling rates, green waste management practices, and partnerships with organizations like Mr. Green Africa and Taka Ni Mali. These partnerships have led to innovative solutions like the “Green Points” program and loT-powered waste management systems. Their efforts are focused on creating a more sustainable future for Kenya through technology and community engagement.

1^st Runner Up – M- Taka

They are a technology-driven platform that is revolutionizing waste management in Kenya. By connecting waste collectors, recyclers, and consumers, the enterprise creates a more efficient and sustainable waste management system. Through its mobile app, it incentivizes responsible waste management practices and fosters a culture of sustainability. Additionally, the Marketplace option connects waste collectors and recyclers with industries, streamlining the supply chain and maximizing the value of waste materials. By leveraging technology and empowering communities they are making a significant contribution to the circular economy in Kenya.

2^nd Runner Up – Baus Taka Enterprise

A Kenyan tech startup that is revolutionizing waste management. By leveraging technology, the company continues to empower individuals to make informed choices about sustainable waste disposal and recycling. Through its innovative mobile app, users can easily schedule waste collection, access educational resources, and participate in community initiatives such as reporting illegal dumping sites across neighborhoods. This tech-driven approach is making a significant impact on environmental sustainability and promoting a circular economy in Kenya

5. The Circular Economy SME of the Year Award (Food, Agriculture, textiles) 

Winner: Trash Thread Textile (T3)

They have demonstrated unparalleled leadership and innovation by setting up Kenya’s first bottle- to-bottle recycling plant, a pioneering initiative that transforms used plastic bottles into food- grade recycled material, which is reintroduced into the food and beverage industry. This closed- loop system ensures that plastic bottles are continuously recycled, significantly reducing plastic waste and promoting full circularity. Their efforts have not only positioned them as a leader in the circular economy, but they have also made food-grade recycling a reality in Kenya, setting a benchmark for other organizations to follow

1^st Runner Up: Loop Pet Food

Saving the planet through circularity, one bowl of pet food at a time.

They are leveraging circularity to create a premium and affordable pet food product – unlocking nutritious food from inputs that should never end up in a landfill. ingredients are sourced sustainably from within Kenya’s borders and include rescued vegetables from smallholder farmers (aggregated by Farm to Feed), black soldier fly larvae (from one of the many incredible insect farms in Nairobi), and brewed grains. Since its inception in 2023, they have diverted approximately 150 tons of organic goodness from landfill… with only more coming in the coming years as the company scales.

2^nd Runner Up: Green Thing Kenya

A locally owned, eco-friendly, and sustainable organization whose major focus is to help Individuals and organizations make eco-conscious decisions by training the staff through workshops and using upcycled and reusable materials to make eco-friendly products. And most of you present here today definitely follow them on Instagram or have interacted with their products.

6. The Circular Economy Financier of the Year Award

Winner – Kenya Climate Change Innovation Centre, KCIC

It is one of the key supporters of youth entrepreneurship offering incubation, capacity building, and financing options to new, small, and medium business ventures and Kenyan entrepreneurs that are developing innovations to address the challenges of climate change. They provide holistic and country-driven support to accelerate the development, deployment and transfer of locally relevant climate technologies. Recently, they have directed millions of shillings to circular businesses to accelerate the transition from a linear to a circular society.

1^st Runner Up – I & M Bank Limited

A leading financial institution that actively supports businesses driving sustainability and circular economy initiatives in Kenya. By providing financial backing to companies and SMEs with sustainable business models, the Bank has played a key role in establishing circular solutions that otherwise remained unbanked. This significant achievement demonstrates the Bank’s commitment to a sustainable future and its ability to empower businesses to make a positive environmental impact.

2^nd Runner Up – Deepening – FSD Kenya

They have been instrumental in promoting sustainable development in Kenya by supporting initiatives that attract green finance. The organization has funded institutions such as Agusto & Co. Kenya to conduct a comprehensive assessment of green finance opportunities in 10 counties.

Additionally, they have sponsored the Inaugural Climate Finance Assessment for these 10 subnational governments, positioning them to attract green finance and implement sustainable development projects. These initiatives will help address the challenges faced by the exchequer and unlock opportunities for sustainable growth.

7. The Circular Economy Young Champion of the Year Award

Winner – Gisore Nyabuti

Gisore Nyabuti is a dedicated environmentalist and human rights advocate who is transforming waste management and uplifting marginalized communities. He is the Secretary General of the Kenya National Waste Pickers Welfare Association and the founder of Slums Going Green and Clean (SGGC). His mission is to empower waste pickers by providing them with recognition, rights, and opportunities within the circular economy. His innovative heat press system converts single-use plastics into sustainable construction materials, addressing both plastic pollution and deforestation.

1^st Runner Up – Shanariha Evans

Shanariha Evans is a 12-year-old environmental activist making significant strides in the fight against climate change. She is passionate about protecting the environment and motivating young people to take action. Through her organization, Young Warriors Club, she has led numerous beach clean-ups, mangrove planting initiatives, and climate literacy programs. Additionally, she has authored a book titled “The Ocean Warrior” to educate young readers about the importance of ocean conservation. Her commitment to environmental protection and her ability to inspire others showcase her as a true climate champion.

2^nd Runner Up – Kelvin Muchiri

Kelvin Muchiri is the face of one of the pioneering waste management companies offering services in urban areas of low- and middle-income countries, especially in Kenya, by deploying the innovative solution of using Black Soldier Fly (BSF). Their operations reflect the principles of a circular economy, where waste is minimized and resources are maximized.

8. The Circular Economy Leader of the Year Award

Winner – Dr. Ayub Macharia

Dr. Ayub Ndaruga Macharia is the Director of Enforcement at the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and is widely recognized as the Father of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in Kenya. His visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability have been instrumental in shaping Kenya’s waste management landscape. He has consistently demonstrated his ability to build consensus and forge partnerships with industry stakeholders while safeguarding the interests of marginalized groups, particularly waste pickers. His recent role as the Focal Point for the Government of Kenya in global plastics treaty negotiations underscores his international stature and influence in environmental policy. Under his guidance, the Ministry of Environment successfully enacted the Sustainable Waste Management Act and the EPR Regulations, marking significant milestones in Kenya’s journey toward a circular economy. His legacy is one of innovation, advocacy, and impactful policy implementation.

1^st Runner Up – Mary-Ann Musangi

Mary-Ann Musangi is a transformative leader in the manufacturing industry, renowned for her commitment to environmental sustainability and community empowerment. She has revolutionized manufacturing practices by championing circular economy principles, prioritizing water efficiency, and minimizing waste. By supporting local MSMEs and promoting sustainable sourcing, she has enhanced business performance while empowering communities. As the Chairperson of the Women in Manufacturing (WIM) Programme at the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM), she continues to inspire and lead the industry toward a more sustainable future. Her visionary approach and unwavering dedication have earned her recognition as a leader of the year in the circular economy.

2^nd Runner Up – Akshay Shah

Akshay Shah exemplifies transformative leadership in Africa’s circular economy transition through pioneering corporate initiatives and industry-wide advocacy. He has led his company to become Africa’s first packaging company to transition to 100% recyclable packaging across all product categories and to join the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, thereby elevating continental participation in global circular economy frameworks. His instrumental role in establishing and initially chairing one of the Producer Responsibility Organizations in Kenya demonstrates his commitment to creating systematic change in the country’s recycling infrastructure and producer responsibility landscape. His leadership embodies the perfect blend of visionary thinking and practical implementation needed to accelerate Africa’s transition to a circular economy.