Advancing Circular Economy and Waste Management in Zanzibar Through Youth Entrepreneurship and Innovation

This chapter seeks to examine the challenges and opportunities for waste management and circular economy innovation in the context of sustainable development in the Zanzibar islands, located in Africa. The primary goals of this study are to propose some strategies for overcoming significant obstacles and capitalising on favourable circumstances to enhance the waste management system. Additionally, it aims to demonstrate the significance of youth circular entrepreneurship in promoting and enhancing circularity in the islands. In order to achieve this objective, a PEST and SWOT analysis were conducted using data gathered from literature sources, as well as through online interviews with key stakeholders, such as experts, young entrepreneurs, policymakers, and relevant practitioners. The findings indicate that in order to shift from a linear “take-make-dispose” approach to a circular waste management system in Zanzibar, it is crucial to tackle gaps in collaboration, enhance funding prospects, reinforce policy frameworks, advance education, and investigate emerging areas of waste management research, such as e-waste management. In addition, it was discovered that the potential for beneficial transformation could only be achieved via the combined endeavours of different parties involved in order to establish sustainable and efficient waste management procedures in the area under investigation. While this study offers valuable insights, further research is required to gather more on-site data in order to formulate effective and practical strategies for advancing circularity in the waste management industry and attaining sustainability objectives in Zanzibar and Africa as a whole.