In a significant achievement for sustainable development in Ghana, Abdulrahim Shaibu-Issah, the Executive Director of Recycle Up! Ghana has been named to the prestigious AGYLE 40 Under 40 list. This accolade recognizes his groundbreaking work in promoting a circular economy and his impactful leadership in transforming waste management practices across the nation.

Since founding Recycle Up! Ghana in 2014, Abdulrahim has dedicated himself to creating innovative solutions to environmental challenges. Under his visionary leadership, the organization has made remarkable strides in empowering marginalized communities, particularly within the informal economy. Recycle Up! Ghana has supported over 300 women waste pickers with essential personal protective equipment (PPEs) and capacity-building programs, significantly improving their livelihoods and working conditions.

In addition to this, Abdulrahim has spearheaded the creation of a new association for women waste pickers, fostering solidarity and collective growth. His efforts have also enabled over 100 women in the informal sector to launch their own businesses, contributing to economic empowerment and sustainable development. Furthermore, Recycle Up! Ghana has provided capacity development to over 500 informal electronic waste pickers, focusing on business formalization, occupational health and safety, and environmental sustainability.

Abdulrahim’s outstanding contributions to environmental sustainability have previously been recognized on the international stage. In 2022, he was awarded the prestigious Mandela Washington Fellowship by the U.S. State Department, highlighting his commitment to leadership and positive change.

The AGYLE – African German Young Leaders in Business program, which honors young leaders from Ethiopia, Ghana, Rwanda, Senegal, Tunisia, and Germany, will focus on the theme "Circular Economy - How young leaders are shaping the transformation" in 2024. This program fosters long-term business networking and the development of innovative ideas and projects that lay the foundation for sustainable economic cooperation.

Participants in the AGYLE program can anticipate an inspiring week filled with discussions, interactive barcamps, workshops, sector-specific matchmaking formats, and company visits. These events aim to enhance leadership skills and foster intercultural cooperation and professional development.

By joining the AGYLE network, Abdulrahim will gain exclusive business contacts in Germany and Africa, building lasting connections that extend beyond the program’s duration. He will also benefit from regular digital events and personalized formats designed to strengthen his skills and competencies as a young leader.

The AGYLE program is an initiative of the Agency for Business and Economic Development (AWE) and Germany - Land of Ideas, funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and supported by GIZ and DEG Impulse.

Abdulrahim Shaibu-Issah’s inclusion in the AGYLE 40 Under 40 list is a testament to his exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to promoting a circular economy in Ghana. His pioneering work continues to inspire sustainable development and innovative solutions, positioning him as a true African Business Hero.