A young Ugandan, Joseph Mukasa, embodies frontline activism against plastic pollution in the Kampala Metropolitan District. Joining forces with hundreds of fellow young citizens, he engages in the daily collection of discarded plastic bottles, a common sight that highlights the prevalent plastic waste issue.

With the growing urgency to address this pervasive problem, the COMESA Competition Commission and the African Consumers Movement are aligning efforts to amplify consumer voices in shaping the global response to plastic pollution. Specifically, their focus is on influencing the upcoming global plastic pollution treaty currently advocated by the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA), with a target for implementation by 2024.

At the heart of their lobbying efforts lies a call for a transition from plastic to glass bottles, stringent recycling practices by plastic-producing industries, and a reduction in single-use plastic products.

“The voices of consumers are often sidelined in global decision-making concerning issues like plastic pollution. Governments worldwide need to mandate recycling for industries,” emphasized Damien Ndizeye, Executive Director of the Rwanda Consumer Rights Protection Organisation (ADECOR).

Ndizeye advocates for designated disposal sites in communities for plastics, emphasizing the critical role of large industries in responsible plastic waste management.

The recent round of treaty negotiations in Nairobi spotlighted the urgency of addressing the global plastic pollution crisis, with an annual production exceeding 430 million tonnes. Michael Mungoma, Director of Programs at Youth Education Network (YED) in Kenya, advocates for governmental bans on single-use plastic products and incentives, such as soft loans, to encourage the shift to glass containers.

Daudi Sumba, Regional Director of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), stressed the need for inclusive talks, especially in amplifying the voices of consumers most affected by plastic pollution.

However, Dr. Willard Mwemba, Executive Director of the COMESA Competition Commission, highlighted the fragmented nature of consumer protection associations in Africa, hindering effective lobbying efforts. He urged unified action among these organizations to wield stronger influence in global conversations on plastic pollution.

The COMESA consumer welfare and advocacy division plays a pivotal role in protecting consumers in the region against unfair trade practices, emphasizing compliance with consumer product safety standards.

The expected presentation of a legally binding instrument by the UN signifies a crucial opportunity to revolutionize approaches to plastic management. With concerted efforts from both government bodies and consumer protection associations, the hope is to foster a sustainable future by mitigating the adverse impact of plastic pollution on communities and the environment.