Ahead of the resumed fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5.2) on the global plastics treaty, civil society groups under the aegis of GAIA Africa have urged governments to adopt an ambitious position against plastic pollution and unpack the treaty’s regional implications.

Africa has played a leading role in the Global Plastics Treaty negotiations, beginning with the adoption of AMCEN Decision 19/2, a landmark mandate by African ministers that firmly established the continent’s priorities.

This decision solidified the African Group of Negotiators’ (AGN) common position, committing the region to advocate for a legally binding global treaty that addresses plastic pollution across its entire lifecycle, from production to disposal, while safeguarding human health and the environment.

Since then, Africa has consistently demonstrated unity, leadership, and moral authority on the international stage, gaining global recognition and respect. As the negotiations advance, they charged the negotiators that the momentum must not waver. “Leaders must now carry this spirit forward into INC-5.2 with renewed determination, upholding their commitments and acting with the courage, integrity, and ambition this moment demands.”

Speaking to journalists during an online media briefing, the civil society members advocated for a strong global plastics treaty and shared their expectations ahead of the upcoming negotiations. They highlighted critical issues, including the elimination of toxic chemicals in plastics, the establishment of a robust and equitable financial mechanism, and, most urgently, the need to reduce plastic production at the source.

Their interventions represented voices from Nigeria, South Africa, Ethiopia, Ghana, Egypt, and Kenya, demonstrating a united continental call for an ambitious treaty that puts people and the planet before profit.

With INC-5.2 on the horizon, they urged the Global South to stand united and approach the negotiations with determination and urgency. “The road ahead may be challenging, but Africa’s message is resolute: we will not back down, nor will we settle for anything less than a treaty that delivers real solutions to end plastic pollution.”