Date: 29/06/2026
Time: 16:00 – 17:00 (BST)
Location: Online
Can circular economy models succeed in developing countries? Lessons from Namibia’s GreenCycle Expo
In this webinar, Commonwealth Alumnus Maria Ningenisheni Shimhanda will explores how developing countries can transition toward climate-resilient circular economies, with Namibia as a compelling case study.
Drawing on insights from the ReThink Waste GreenCycle Expo, the webinar will showcase how governments, businesses, and communities can collaborate to create green jobs, reduce environmental risks, and unlock investment opportunities. Maria will highlight practical lessons from engaging over 550 stakeholders, including strategies on policy alignment, innovative financing, and inclusive approaches that empower youth, women, and informal waste actors.
Participants will gain actionable insights to scale circular solutions in resource-constrained settings while advancing key Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Climate Action (SDG 13), Sustainable Cities (SDG 11), and Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12).
This webinar will address the CSC development theme, Strengthening resilience and response to crises.
The CSC’s Development in Action webinar series provides an opportunity for Commonwealth Scholars and Alumni to present on their work and contribution to development across a range of contemporary global challenges and provide insight into ongoing research and action.
Open to all Commonwealth Scholars and Alumni, the monthly webinars will address one of the CSC’s six development themes and provide an opportunity for attendees to engage in real-time Q&A discussion on the topic presented.
You can watch previous webinars on the CSC’s YouTube channel.
Maria Ningenisheni Shimhanda is the Founder and Lead Consultant of Aligned Sustainability & Environmental Consultants (ASEC), a female-led firm delivering environmental and social impact solutions across Namibia and Southern Africa.
Maria is also Co-Founder and Project Director of the Namibia ReThink Waste GreenCycle Expo, bringing together government, industry, and communities to advance circular economy solutions, green jobs, and climate action. Her work has supported ecosystem-based adaptation initiatives reaching over 5,000 households and informed national dialogue on waste and circular economy policy.
With over eight years’ experience in sustainability and environmental management, she specialises in stakeholder engagement, climate resilience, and community-based development, and is currently pursuing a PhD in Natural Resources Management.
Maria Ningenisheni Shimhanda is a 2018 Commonwealth Scholar from Namibia. She completed her MSc in Environmental Management at Coventry University.
