The event brought together over 5000 industry leaders, innovators, and sustainability champions to explore the future of packaging in West Africa
FSC’s Contribution to the Summit
Day 1 kicked off with the PROPAK Summit – Shaping the Future of Packaging in West Africa, a high-impact conference designed to spark fresh thinking around packaging, manufacturing, and sustainability. FSC’s Gerard Busse, (Market Development Manager for Africa and the Middle East), delivered a presentation on the topic “From Forests to Shelf – Responsible Sourcing of Forest-Based Products”. During the exchange, he shared insights on how companies across the region can source responsibly by using products from sustainably managed forests. He explained that the Forest Stewardship Council’s (FSC) globally recognized certification system provides brands and retailers with credible assurance that the products they sell do not contribute to deforestation or degrade the environment.
He also highlighting FSC’s role in supporting the circular economy and building consumer trust in responsible sourcing and recycling solutions. His presentation formed part of a dynamic program that included keynote addresses, expert panel discussions, and case studies showcasing transformative packaging and processing technologies shaping the region’s industrial growth.
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Conversations at the FSC stand
Throughout the three-day exhibition, the FSC branded stand at the exhibition floor was buzzing with activity, it served as a hub for knowledge exchange and engagement. Throughout the three-day exhibition, the FSC branded stand on the exhibition floor was buzzing with activity, serving as a hub for knowledge exchange and engagement. Visitors explored real-world examples of FSC-certified packaging, discussed Chain of Custody certification pathways, and connected with the FSC team on practical steps towards sustainable sourcing. Among the certificate holders who stood out at the event were Veevee Industries, Manuchar Paper, and Quantum Packaging Nigeria Ltd, whose presence highlighted the growing adoption of FSC certification in the West African packaging sector.
The FSC Africa delegation at PROPAK included:
- Gerard Busse – Market Development Manager, Africa and Middle East
- Brilliant Dziko – Market Development Officer, West Africa and Congo Basin
- Hypp Boumi – Certification Officer, Congo Basin
Together, the team engaged with packaging converters, brand owners, retailers, and certificate holders to build awareness of FSC’s mission and solutions for responsible forest management across Africa.
FSC Africa extends its sincere appreciation to all visitors, partners, and certificate holders who visited our stand. Your active participation, thoughtful questions, and commitment to responsible forest management helped make this year’s PROPAK West Africa exhibition a resounding success.
As markets for forest-based products continue to expand across West Africa, FSC reaffirms its commitment to working with stakeholders to advance sustainable supply chains, reinforce responsible sourcing practices, and safeguard the world’s forests as vital resources for both people and nature.
For more information on FSC certification, Chain of Custody, or partnership opportunities, please reach out to our team at fscafrica@fsc.org