#SACEH24 Conference Day 2: Wrapping Up a Transformative Experience
The South African Circular Economy Hotspot 2024 (#SACEH24) concluded today with its second and final day, leaving delegates inspired and energized. Organized by Sustainable Inclusive Business Kenya (SIB-K) in partnership with the African Circular Economy Network (ACEN) and TheRockGroup (TRG), the event brought together over 300 delegates from across Africa to explore and champion circular economy solutions.
Today’s agenda was packed with thought-provoking sessions, 35 expert speakers, and 25 exhibitors showcasing circular solutions. Key moments included:
During the inaugural address, Karin Boomsma, Project Director and lead consultant for East and Southern Africa at TheRockGroup, remarked, “The essence of circular economy has come to life in the two days of our conference. We have had powerful partnerships, inspiring knowledge-sharing sessions, and networking.” Katharina Gihring, the Strategic Programme & Operations Lead for the African Circular Economy Network (ACEN), took the delegates through her personal journey in the circular economy journey and echoed the power of partnerships and networking.
5 engaging sessions covering circular economy principles across industries.
A thrilling SA2Slush competition where startups pitched innovative circular solutions. Ginette Blackbeard, with her upcycled beauty-health startup ENOUGH, incubated by Future Females, was awarded as the winner. She earned an exclusive pass to SLUSH, the world-renowned startup and tech event in Helsinki, Finland, along with full travel coverage and access to mentoring, investor meetings, and matchmaking tools to accelerate her business on a global stage.
B2B matchmaking opportunities, encouraging partnerships for future collaborations.
3 insightful field trips to explore circular practices in action, including the Hasso Plattner d-school Afrika and the Living Soils Farm.
A special highlight was Pekka Metso, the newly appointed Finnish Ambassador to South Africa, who delivered the Circular Ambassador address. Mr. Metso expressed his optimism for continued circular economy cooperation between Finland and South Africa. He also emphasized the embassy’s commitment to supporting circular initiatives, particularly through the #SA2Slush competition, which showcases South Africa’s innovative potential in the circular economy. The Embassy of Finland, excited to partner with #SACEH24 for this competition, has shown strong support for circular startups in South Africa. Since 2021, the embassy has collaborated with partners like Fetola and WomHub to nurture circular entrepreneurship, demonstrating its commitment to empowering local innovators with impactful, sustainable solutions.
Hosted at the Hasso Plattner D-School Afrika in Cape Town, the event’s strong focus on creativity and sustainability was exemplified by the Circular Textile Catwalk from Sari for Change and discussions on how circular solutions can tackle key issues in South Africa.
The conference was made possible by key supporters like the Netherlands Enterprise Agency, Embassy of Finland, and the Atlantis Special Economic Zone, all of whom are committed to advancing circular economy initiatives on the continent. With a powerful close by Melany Fuma, the event emphasized the importance of collaboration, innovation, and action in creating a sustainable future.
Watch recordings of the sessions and plenaries here.
