KCB Foundation has partnered with Hivos, the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA), Somo, and United States International University-Africa to launch the European Union-funded “Tujenge Pamoja” initiative aimed at accelerating Kenya’s transition to a circular green economy.
The initiative, implemented under the EU SWITCH Africa Green Programme, seeks to shift Kenya from the traditional linear “take–make–dispose” economic model to a circular economy anchored on repair, reuse, recycling, and resource efficiency.
The programme will support 3,200 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to adopt sustainable and commercially viable circular business models, while also strengthening 40 Business Support Organizations (BSOs) as well as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions to serve as innovation and enterprise development hubs across the country.
Speaking during the launch in Nairobi, KCB Foundation Director Mendi Njonjo said: “This programme is about economic resilience, dignity and opportunity for millions of Kenyans whose livelihoods depend on MSMEs. By empowering small businesses with green financing, innovation, and skills, we are building enterprises that can compete, create jobs, and drive Kenya’s transition to a more inclusive and circular economy.”
The programme also aims to create green jobs, particularly for women and youth, reduce waste streams and greenhouse gas emissions, and improve access to green financing through catalytic funding mechanisms that will help enterprises scale environmentally responsible solutions.
“The transition to a circular economy is not only an environmental imperative, but also a major economic opportunity for Kenya. Through ‘Tujenge Pamoja’, we are strengthening innovation, supporting MSMEs, creating green jobs, and promoting inclusive growth that leaves no one behind,” noted European Union Ambassador to Kenya Henriette Geiger.
With a strong focus on Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI), “Tujenge Pamoja” prioritizes women-led, youth-led, and marginalized enterprises to ensure an equitable transition to sustainability.
It will promote innovative solutions in critical value chains, including plastics and packaging, organic waste management through composting and biogas solutions, as well as sustainable textiles.
The initiative also aligns with Kenya Vision 2030, the country’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, and global Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 8 on Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 12 on Responsible Consumption and Production, and SDG 13 on Climate Action.
