[Nairobi, Kenya – July 31, 2025] A regional learning exchange on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and circularity concluded in Nairobi, Kenya, following a week-long engagement between Kenyan and Rwandan stakeholders. The initiative, organised by the Kenya Plastics Pact (KPP) in partnership with Rwanda’s Ministry of Environment and GIZ (WCE Project), focused on sharing practical approaches to plastic waste management.
Themed “Collaborating for Circularity: Advancing EPR and Innovation Across East Africa”, the event facilitated knowledge transfer through training sessions and study tours of Kenya’s EPR system. Participants explored legal frameworks, Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs), and public-private collaborations.
Dr. John Wandaka, Chair of the Environment Sector Board at KEPSA, described EPR as a “business strategy, a compliance requirement, and a sustainability enabler.” He cited KEPSA’s role in the 2024 EPR Regulations, the development of guidance documents, and recent digital resource updates via NEMA.
The Rwandan delegation, led by Dismas Karuranga of the Ministry of Environment, acknowledged Kenya’s model as a reference for Rwanda’s national EPR roadmap. “The Kenyan experience provides a robust framework and valuable lessons,” Karuranga stated.
Akshay Shah, Group Executive Director at Sila Africa and Chairperson of KEPRO, highlighted the importance of government-private sector collaboration in EPR implementation.
Earlier in the program, Dr. Ayub Macharia of NEMA briefed the visitors on regulatory progress and enforcement challenges in Kenya’s EPR rollout.
The Rwandan team included representatives from RURA, CPCIC, PSF, and Practical Action Kenya, among others. The exchange reinforced regional cooperation in addressing plastic waste and promoting a circular economy across East Africa.