As over 170 nations gather in Geneva for the final round of negotiations on the proposed Global Plastics Treaty, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) has called for African countries to reject the agreement, warning of severe economic consequences for the continent’s hydrocarbon-producing nations.
The treaty, being negotiated under the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), aims to establish a legally binding framework to combat plastic pollution across its entire lifecycle – from design and production to disposal.
If adopted, it would significantly curtail the production of single-use plastics, a move environmental advocates say is critical to reversing the global plastic crisis, which sees over 460 million metric tonnes produced annually.
But the AEC argues that such restrictions would devastate Africa’s petrochemical industry, stalling industrialisation, increasing energy poverty and deterring investment in vital sectors.
“Supporting this treaty would amount to shooting yourselves in the foot, making no sense for Africa’s future,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.
Countries like Gabon, Ghana, Angola and Senegal – rich in oil and gas reserves – are at the heart of Africa’s petrochemical ambitions.
Gabon, for instance, is targeting 220,000 barrels per day and investing in projects like the $2 billion Cap Lopez LNG terminal and the Batanga LPG plant.
Senegal is advancing its Greater Tortue Ahmeyim and Sangomar oilfield projects, while Ghana’s $12 billion petroleum hub in Jomoro aims to transform West Africa’s energy landscape.
Angola, under its Gas Master Plan, seeks $30 billion in investment to boost petrochemical and fertilizer production.
The AEC warned that the treaty would jeopardise these efforts, undermining energy security and economic diversification.
Tanzania, with 57 trillion cubic feet of gas reserves, is also developing major petrochemical infrastructure, including the $42 billion Tanzania LNG project and the Kilwa Complex, Africa’s largest planned fertilizer plant.
The chamber says treaty restrictions could derail financing and completion of such projects.
While proponents of the treaty emphasise its environmental urgency, African stakeholders argue that the continent’s developmental priorities – particularly industrial growth and poverty alleviation – must not be sidelined.
The Geneva negotiations, scheduled to conclude on 14 August, are expected to finalise the treaty text.
JN/APA