Dakar Launches DICE Africa to Connect Digital Innovation With Circular Economy Solutions

On March 31, 2026, Dakar hosted the official launch of the DICE Africa (Digital Innovation for Circular Economy) project, marking a significant step toward strengthening circular economy practices across West Africa.

The launch brought together government officials, development partners, researchers, entrepreneurs, and civil society actors to establish a program focused on building circular value chains and promoting inclusive economic growth, with particular emphasis on youth and women participation.

In Senegal, circular economy activities are already emerging in sectors such as waste management, material processing, and by-product valorization. However, these initiatives remain fragmented and constrained by limited access to finance and weak ecosystem coordination. With more than 3 million tonnes of waste generated annually, the country faces both a pressing environmental challenge and a major opportunity for innovation-driven economic growth.

Policy and International Support

The project is led by the Nigeria Climate Innovation Centre and funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC).

Speaking at the launch, stakeholders highlighted Senegal’s growing policy commitment to sustainability, including restrictions on harmful plastic bags and the establishment of the National Integrated Waste Management Company (SONAGED). These efforts were presented as key foundations for advancing a national circular transition.

Digital Innovation at the Core

A central pillar of DICE Africa is the use of digital technologies to strengthen circular economy small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Government representatives emphasized that digital transformation can improve productivity, innovation, and inclusion across value chains.

The initiative will deploy digital tools to enhance resource efficiency, support local innovation, and improve coordination within the circular economy ecosystem.

From Research to Implementation

The program will focus on research and ecosystem mapping, SME capacity building, climate finance mobilization, and the development of investment-ready projects.

A regional hackathon is also planned to bring together innovators and entrepreneurs to design digital solutions addressing circular economy challenges. These solutions will contribute to a digital platform aimed at connecting stakeholders, improving market access, and expanding financing opportunities.

Looking Ahead

In the coming months, DICE Africa will deepen research into Senegal’s circular economy landscape to identify barriers and growth opportunities. The long-term goal is to build a scalable ecosystem that supports innovation, entrepreneurship, climate resilience, and sustainable economic growth.

The launch in Senegal signals a broader West African ambition to leverage digital innovation to transform circular economy potential into inclusive, technology-driven development at scale.