Africa generates approximately 19 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, nearly 90% of which is mismanaged. Most ends up in open dumps, rivers and marine ecosystems, threatening biodiversity, public health and livelihoods. Recycling is limited, and without significant investment, mismanaged plastics could triple by 2060. The region now has eight NPAPs – Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, Angola, Gabon, Senegal and Zambia – engaging more than 550 stakeholders in government, business, academia and civil society. GPAP’s African platforms inspire evidence-based policy and inclusive financing mechanisms for circular economy solutions. At the continental level, GPAP deepened collaboration through the African Circular Economy Alliance (ACEA), leading the ACEA Working Group on Plastic Packaging to strengthen regional knowledge exchange and align NPAP and non- NPAP countries. Africa Kenya is committed to tackling the pressing issue of plastic pollution, and we recognize the significance of partnerships like GPAP in transforming our collective ambitions into tangible solutions. William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya CASE STUDY Draft regional standards for recycled PET (rPET) in Africa Challenge Africa’s growing plastic demand and limited recycling infrastructure highlighted the need for harmonized regional standards for food-grade recycled plastics, which were slowing investment and innovation. Solution and results The African Organization for Standardization (ARSO), Africa Circular Economy Alliance (ACEA), African Union, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and Circularium Africa Advisory developed the African Standard for Recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate (rPET) for Food Contact – DARS 1721:2024, a standard for recycled PET in food contact applications. It establishes unified testing and safety requirements, boosting regional trade and circularity. Our role GPAP spearheaded this milestone through the World Economic Forum’s Regional Action Group for Africa. Together with ACEA, we engaged stakeholders across the region and positioned Africa at the forefront of a circular economy transformation that delivers economic growth, jobs and positive environmental outcomes. Unlocking Plastic Action for Inclusion, Resilience and Growth: GPAP Annual Report 2025 7

Unlocking Plastic Action for Inclusion Resilience and Growth GPAP Annual Report 2025