The circular economy is increasingly recognised not only as a driver of sustainable business growth but also as a critical pillar of environmental conservation. As climate pressures and resource constraints intensify, businesses are being forced to rethink how materials are used, reused, and regenerated.
Globally, linear production models built on extraction, consumption, and disposal are proving unsustainable. Circular systems, which prioritise reuse, recycling, repair, and regeneration, offer a pathway to reduce waste while unlocking new economic value.
In Kenya, the urgency of this transition is particularly evident.
Nairobi alone generates an estimated 2,000 to 2,500 tonnes of solid waste every day, much of it organic material and plastics. A significant share ends up in landfills and informal dumpsites, contributing to pollution, health risks, and greenhouse gas emissions.
Yet much of this waste represents untapped opportunity.
For businesses, circular practices can lower operational costs, improve efficiency, and support compliance with increasingly stringent environmental regulations. More importantly, circularity enables innovation—opening new markets, products, and services that align profitability with sustainability.
This vision is now being advanced through the KEPRO Circular Economy Accelerator Program 2026, which is currently open for applications.
Running from March to June 2026, the program is designed to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in turning sustainability requirements into competitive advantages. It focuses on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) integration, and circular manufacturing models.
Rather than treating compliance as a burden, the accelerator positions it as a growth strategy.
Participants will receive practical tools and strategic guidance to build circular business models that meet regulatory standards. The program also introduces digital and AI-driven solutions to enhance efficiency, traceability, and decision-making across operations.
Strengthening governance is a core component.
Improved management frameworks, performance monitoring, and risk controls are embedded into the program to help SMEs attract investment, form partnerships, and scale responsibly. The aim is to ensure sustainability becomes a source of resilience in a rapidly changing market.
Access to finance further strengthens the offering.
SMEs can access funding ranging from Sh100,000 to Sh14 million, offered at a competitive interest rate of 9.75 percent. This capital is intended to support circular innovations, technology adoption, and business expansion.
Applications are open until 20 February 2026, and both KEPRO members and non-members are eligible to apply.
For enterprises ready to embrace circularity as a pathway to environmental stewardship and long-term growth, the KEPRO Circular Economy Accelerator Program offers a timely and strategic opportunity.
