This archive report was first published on 1 October 2021.
As the African continent continues to grapple with the economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, a silver lining has emerged in the form of a new future based on green and sustainable growth.
According to the African Economic Outlook 2021, the pandemic has had a devastating impact on the economies of many African countries, with negative economic growth rates recorded for the first time in decades.
However, the pandemic has also presented opportunities for the continent to rethink its economic strategies and develop a more resilient economy.
One such strategy is the development of a sustainable bioeconomy, which involves the use of scientific knowledge to add social and economic value to biological resources.
Sub-Saharan Africa has a rich biological resource base, a large proportion of arable land, and a highly talented youthful workforce, giving the region a competitive advantage in developing a sustainable bioeconomy.
With nearly 90 percent of human medicines used in the region being imported, the pandemic has highlighted the need for the region to develop homegrown solutions to emerging health problems, such as the manufacturing of essential medicines and vaccines.
A sustainable bioeconomy offers part of the solution, and the region is already seeing emerging bioeconomy opportunities in healthcare delivery, bio-packaging, and policy development.
For instance, scientists at the University of Burundi are working with industry to develop low-cost, highly efficient, and innovative mosquito-repellent products that help control and reduce malaria incidence.
Similarly, entrepreneurs in Kenya are investing in the novel production of cassava bags made from cassava starch that is biodegradable within six months.
These initiatives have the potential to generate jobs and incomes locally, while also reducing post-harvest losses in the agri-food sector.
However, the successful realization of a sustainable bioeconomy in the region will require governments, industry, and the private sector to do things differently, creating a conducive policy environment at both the regional and national levels.
