Ethiopia’s Circular Economy, Green Legacy Initiative Offer Model for Africa: Finnish Embassy Official

Addis ababa: Ethiopia's efforts to advance a circular economy and implement the Green Legacy Initiative are emerging as a model for other African countries seeking sustainable and climate-resilient development, a senior Finnish Embassy official has said. Speaking to ENA, Head of Cooperation at the Finnish Embassy in Addis Ababa, Tomi Sarkioja commended Ethiopia's bold policy reforms and large-scale environmental programs. He described them as important steps toward building a greener, more sustainable and inclusive economy.According to Ethiopian News Agency, Sarkioja noted that Finland is collaborating closely with Ethiopia to bolster circular economy initiatives, drawing on the Nordic country's extensive experience in the sector. He emphasized that the circular economy offers significant opportunities for environmental protection, innovation, job creation, and long-term economic growth. 'Circular economy is about doing business in a completely different way. It creates a win-win situation for both the envi ronment and businesses,' he said.In July 2024, Ethiopia officially launched its National Circular Economy Roadmap to accelerate the shift from a traditional 'take-make-dispose' economic model to one based on reuse, repair, recycling, and resource recovery. The Finnish official praised Ethiopia for developing this roadmap and fostering a policy environment that encourages sustainable business practices and innovation. He highlighted Ethiopia's progress in areas that many African countries are increasingly prioritizing as they pursue green and resilient development pathways.According to Sarkioja, Ethiopia's commitment to circular economy principles is unlocking new economic opportunities while addressing pressing environmental challenges. He elaborated on the nation's efforts, stating that the emergence of young entrepreneurs with innovative business models is encouraging. 'Ethiopia is taking really bold steps through the policies it has put in place, including the national circular economy roadmap. It is a lso encouraging to see young entrepreneurs bringing forward innovative ideas that create new opportunities for the country,' he stated.He added that the growing private-sector engagement, combined with strong government leadership, is creating significant momentum for the expansion of circular economy initiatives nationwide. Sarkioja further emphasized that Ethiopia's circular economy agenda aligns closely with the country's Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda and the Green Legacy Initiative. He stated that these initiatives create a strong foundation for environmentally sustainable and inclusive growth. 'The circular economy and the Green Legacy Initiative are a perfect match because both contribute to environmental protection and sustainable growth,' he said.Highlighting Ethiopia's potential to become a regional leader in sustainability, Sarkioja said the country's experience offers valuable lessons for other nations seeking to transition toward greener economies. 'Ethiopia can show the way to other countr ies and share its experience. The country is known for taking bold actions, and circularity is an area where it has tremendous potential to become a regional leader,' he added.The Finnish official also pointed to Ethiopia's growing international profile in environmental and climate action, noting that its selection to host the 2027 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP32) reflects the country's increasing role in global sustainability efforts. 'Ethiopia is building strong momentum and demonstrating a pathway toward a greener future for its people and for the wider region,' he said.Sarkioja further revealed that Ethiopia and Finland are collaborating in several areas related to environmental sustainability and natural resource management, including land registration systems, meteorological services, and conservation programs. According to him, Finland remains committed to supporting Ethiopia's efforts to strengthen natural resource conservation and sustainable development.