Report Projects 124% Increase in Waste Generation in Sub-Saharan Africa
What happened
A joint report highlights severe waste challenges in rapidly growing African cities, including Johannesburg and Lagos. The World Bank projects that waste generation in sub-Saharan Africa will increase by 124% between now and 2050. The report notes that more than 90% of waste generated in Africa is disposed of at uncontrolled dumpsites and landfills, according to the United Nations Environment Program.
From thestar.com.my
Why it matters
The mounting waste problem reflects a broader challenge across Africa as urban populations are projected to double by 2050. Municipalities are struggling to collect, recycle, or safely dispose of waste, leading to issues like illegal dumping and uncontrolled dumpsites.
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Who's involved
- JohannesburgA city where waste accumulation has led to illegal dumping and municipal capacity failure.
- LagosA major African city cited as facing significant waste challenges.
- African Development BankA multilateral development finance institution involved in the joint report.
- United Cities and Local Governments of AfricaAn intergovernmental organization that co-authored the joint report on urban challenges.
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- AfricaSpeculative
The waste crisis could increase systemic risk and infrastructure funding needs across the continent.
Possible ripples
Who this could reach next, traced step by step from the reporting. Possibilities worth considering, not forecasts.- Africa faces growing systemic risk from urban waste crisisAfrica faces growing systemic risk from urban waste crisisLikely
- Pikitup faces growing pressure from rising waste volumesPikitup faces increased operational strain from rising waste volumesLikely
- Johannesburg city council may face pressure over waste crisisThe city council may need to increase regulatory oversight and budget allocations to manage waste.Possible
- Lagos State waste authority may face strain from rising waste volumesIncreased waste generation could strain Lagos State Waste Management Authority's operationsPossible
- Lagos State Government may face increased waste management burdenIncreased waste projections may place a heavy operational burden on Lagos State GovernmentPossible
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The entities involved
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Johannesburg
largest city in South Africa
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Lagos
largest city and former capital of Nigeria
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African Development Bank
multilateral development finance institution