The ABYT Network
African Biofeedstock Youth Traders (ABYT)Network
The ABYT Network is a pan-African initiative that empowers young people to turn food waste, market refuse, and agricultural residues into income-generating opportunities. By offering hands-on training, mentorship, and access to formal value chains, the ABYT Network supports youth-led enterprises that reclaim waste and drive sustainable, circular economies across the continent.
ABYT Associates are youth entrepreneurs trained to recruit and support vendors in biofeedstock recovery and organic waste management. They provide tailored solutions to households, farms, schools, and enterprises, that help vendors monetize waste by connecting them to formal bioeconomy value chains. These activities not only create livelihoods but also foster inclusive green development.
Africa faces two critical and interconnected challenges: rising youth unemployment and poor waste management. In Kenya alone, over 800,000 young people enter the job market each year, with unemployment among 15–24-year-olds at approximately 12% and underemployment among youth aged 15–34 reaching 67%. At the same time, Africa produces over 125 million tonnes of waste annually, yet less than 10% is formally recycled or recovered. Kenya generates more than 22,000 tonnes of waste every day, much of it unmanaged leading to health hazards, lost economic value, and environmental degradation.
Despite these challenges, the biofeedstock sector offers vast untapped opportunities. Africa’s solid biofuels market—covering wood chips, pellets, and agri-residues—is projected to reach $19.7 billion by 2035. The broader Middle East and Africa biofuels market is valued at $305 million (2023) and expected to grow to $582 million by 2030. Africa’s biodiesel sector alone is forecasted to expand from $300 million in 2025 to $500 million by 2031. Simultaneously, the organic fertilizer market in Africa is set to hit $450 million by 2030, while demand for compostable packaging and eco-friendly utensils made from agricultural waste continues to rise, offering scalable alternatives to plastic.
The ABYT Network is uniquely positioned at the intersection of youth empowerment, environmental sustainability, and circular innovation. By building biofeedstock literacy and unlocking access to green markets, ABYT is creating dignified work, promoting climate-smart solutions, and accelerating Africa’s shift to a regenerative, waste-to-wealth future.
