A field mission was organized by the Lake Tanganyika Authority (LTA), in collaboration with the partners of the TAKIWAMA project, from 7 to 9 April 2026, with the objective of assessing the achievements of the LATAWAMA and TAKIWAMA projects, in relation to sustainable resource management and the promotion of circular economy practices in the Lake Tanganyika basin.
In this context, in the Republic of Burundi, two laboratories that have benefited from the projects were visited, including the Buterere Wastewater Treatment Plant (Bujumbura) and the OBPE Laboratory, as well as two organizations active in the circular economy sector, namely Nezerwa Investment Group and Mutambara Brick & Charcoal Company (MBBC).
In the United Republic of Tanzania, a research laboratory of TAFIRI that benefited from the projects was visited, along with four entrepreneurs engaged in circular economy activities, namely Kilanoza Company, CRS Office of Simbo, MATIKO, and Rajabu Amani.
The mission highlighted significant progress in the implementation of the LATAWAMA and TAKIWAMA projects, particularly in strengthening institutional capacities, modernizing infrastructure, and promoting circular economy initiatives.
Laboratories and scientific institutions play a key role in enhancing environmental monitoring within the Lake Tanganyika basin, while private and community-based initiatives actively contribute to waste valorization, job creation, and pollution reduction.
Notable progress was also observed in structuring waste management value chains, although challenges remain in terms of coordination and harmonization of approaches.
Recommendations
• Strengthen coordination among institutional, technical, and private stakeholders at the regional level.
• Promote standardization of circular economy products to enhance quality and market competitiveness.
• Increase the involvement of public authorities to ensure sustainability of interventions.
• Support the development of local waste transformation to increase value addition within communities.
• Strengthen knowledge-sharing and best practice exchange mechanisms between countries of the Lake Tanganyika basin.