Accra: A five-day workshop focusing on circular economy and textile exchange concluded in Accra, emphasizing the need for sustainable management of textile waste in Ghana and across Africa. The event, hosted by the Accra Metropolitan Assembly in collaboration with the Africa-Europe Mayors' Dialogue, drew over 100 participants including policymakers, industry leaders, and advocates from various cities worldwide. According to Ghana News Agency, the workshop aimed to enhance collaboration and exchange practical knowledge on sustainable textile management, recycling, and innovative circular business models. Notable cities such as London, Durban, and Freetown were represented, with the goal of exploring sustainable practices and fostering international cooperation. Madam Elizabeth Kwastoe Sackey, represented by Mr. Solomon Noi, Director of the Waste Management Department at AMA, highlighted the challenges faced by Accra in managing secondhand clothing waste due to inadequate resources. Mr. Noi detailed plans for adopting a circular model for waste management in Accra, which includes sorting and collecting textiles separately and learning from the best practices of partner cities in the Global North. Madam Kenji Maghoma, Communications and Production Specialist at the Africa Europe Mayors Dialogue, described the platform as a means for African and European mayors to deliver innovative and practical solutions. She emphasized that the technical cooperation would focus on waste management, recycling techniques, business models, and innovation, while policy and advocacy efforts would aim to support policy change and reform through city diplomacy and cooperation. Liz Ricketts, Founder of The Or Foundation, addressed the global crisis triggered by excessive production and consumerism in the Global North, which significantly impacts Ghana. She pointed out that Kantamanto Market in Accra receives about 15 million garments weekly, many of which hold little or no value upon arrival. Ricketts called for global accountability t hrough the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policies to support communities affected by textile waste. Furthermore, Rachel Singer, Circular Economy Advisor at ReLondon, shared insights into London's Environment Strategy, which includes ambitious goals to eliminate biodegradable and recyclable waste from landfills by 2026 and to increase recycling rates to 65% by 2030. She explained how ReLondon is working to equip local authorities, empower small- and medium-sized businesses, and encourage Londoners to adopt new consumption models. The workshop also featured site visits to Kantamanto Market and presentations by sustainable fashion designers, aiming to strengthen policy advocacy for circular practices.