This study examines waste-to-energy conversion potential in Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo, applying circular economy principles to address interconnected challenges of waste management, energy access, and environmental degradation. A mixed-methods approach combining waste characterization, economic modeling, and stakeholder analysis was employed between July and September 2025. Bukavu generates approximately 649.5 tonnes of solid waste daily, with households contributing 67% of the total. Waste composition is dominated by organic material (60–61%), followed by plastics (10–15%) and paper products (9%). Despite this substantial generation, current collection systems recover only 15% of waste, leaving 552 tonnes uncollected daily and accumulating at 346 informal dumpsites, many located near Lake Kivu and the Rusizi River, threatening aquatic ecosystems and contributing to Lake Tanganyika pollution. Valorization rates remain critically low at 0.15%, yet economic analysis reveals significant potential for waste-derived energy products. Briquette production demonstrates conversion rates of 40–65% for agricultural waste with profit margins of 53.8%, offering viable alternatives to charcoal and firewood while reducing deforestation pressure. Biogas production shows theoretical conversion rates of 15–40% but lacks operational implementation. The study identifies briquette production as the most economically viable energy recovery technology, addressing both waste management deficits and chronic energy shortages affecting 80–95% of the Lake Tanganyika population. Realizing this potential requires strengthened institutional frameworks, technical capacity building, and integrated stakeholder engagement to transform waste from environmental liability into economic asset while contributing to sustainable development objectives.