Policy Frameworks and Governance in Plastic Waste Management: A Comparative Analysis of African Countries

Plastic waste management is a critical environmental and public health challenge in Africa, requiring comprehensive policy frameworks and effective governance mechanisms. This paper presents a comparative analysis of plastic waste policies across African countries, focusing on legislative measures, regulatory enforcement, and stakeholder involvement. It examines the effectiveness of interventions such as plastic bags, extended producer responsibility (EPR), and financial incentives for waste management enterprises. Additionally, the study explores the role of informal waste economies, public-private partnerships, and regional collaborations in addressing plastic pollution. The analysis highlights best practices, identifies policy gaps, and underscores the challenges faced in implementation and compliance. A key finding is the need for harmonized regional policies, strengthened enforcement mechanisms, and innovative financing models to improve plastic waste governance. The research also emphasizes the importance of integrating informal waste collectors into formal systems and leveraging digital technologies for waste tracking and management. By providing actionable insights, this review serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, environmental organizations, and researchers working toward sustainable and efficient plastic waste management systems in Africa. Strengthening governance and fostering cross-border cooperation will be essential for mitigating plastic waste pollution and advancing environmental sustainability across the continent. Keywords: Plastic waste management, policy frameworks, governance, Africa, environmental regulations, extended producer responsibility, waste recycling, sustainability.