Experts at the Africa Bioeconomy Workshop in Nairobi are urging East African nations to transition from bioeconomy research and strategies to developing profitable, local industries that add value to the region's biological resources.

• The goal is to move from exporting raw materials to local processing and manufacturing, thereby creating jobs and retaining more economic value within the continent.
• Key participants included Niall O’Connor, Centre Director of the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) Africa Centre, and Dr Abdou Tenkouano, Director General of the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe).
• Discussions highlighted the potential of agricultural residues and organic waste as feedstock for industries producing biofuels, biodegradable packaging, and bio-based construction materials, with a call for strengthened university-industry partnerships and improved regulatory standards.