Who We Are
At African Sustainability Lab (ASL), we believe sustainability is more than just a target — it’s a mindset, a design principle, and a way of living that can reshape Africa’s future. As cities across the continent expand at an unprecedented rate, we see a unique opportunity to build systems that are resilient, inclusive, and regenerative. For us, sustainability is not a distant dream — it is the foundation for how we live, build, and thrive in the face of growing challenges.
ASL was born from a shared sense of urgency and vision. Across Africa, millions of people are facing deeply interconnected crises: food insecurity, broken transport systems, widespread unemployment, and environmental degradation. Traditional models — linear, extractive, and short-sighted — are no longer fit for purpose. We created African Sustainability Lab to pioneer a new way forward, one that harnesses science, entrepreneurship, and circular thinking to create solutions that work for real people.
Inspired by the science lab model of detection, diagnosis, and treatment, we approach urban challenges with clarity and creativity.
The Birth of African Sustainability Lab
While at the University of Ghana, a passionate group of young changemakers launched Sustainability Week Accra — a student-led initiative that marked the foundation of what would become the African Sustainability Lab (ASL).
This marked the Lab’s origin as a platform dedicated to empowering youth-led sustainability movements across Africa, starting with climate action on campus
Founding Sustainability Week Accra
The first major initiative under ASL, Sustainability Week Accra (SWA), became Ghana’s first officially registered local Sustainability Week under the international umbrella of Sustainability Week International (Switzerland).
SWA inspired a new sustainability culture among students, staff, and communities through creative, climate-focused actions.
First SWA Events & International Recognition
SWA launched its first week-long lineup of interactive events:
This pioneering effort was internationally recognized by the International Sustainable Campus Network (ISCN) and the Clinton Global Initiative University for outstanding student leadership.
Local Youth Environmental Assembly (LYEA)
ASL, through SWA, convened Ghana’s first Local Youth Environment Assembly in alignment with UNEA‑5.2.
Over 250 youth participants explored:
Our Story
African Sustainability Lab (ASL) is a registered Limited by Guarantee company founded on the belief that Africa’s most urgent urban challenges — from food insecurity to youth unemployment — can be solved through innovation, not aid. Frustrated by top-down development models, we built a team of designers, engineers, and entrepreneurs dedicated to creating people-centered, circular solutions in food, mobility, and work. Grounded in African realities and inspired by global best practices, ASL reimagines broken systems with scalable, community-powered approaches. We believe Africa has the talent and resilience to lead its own transformation — our mission is to help unlock it.
Building Sustainable Cities Through Food, Mobility, and Work
We ensure access to fresh, healthy, and locally-grown food by supporting sustainable agriculture, improving distribution systems, and promoting food justice in urban communities.
We design and prototype inclusive urban transport systems — like safe cycling infrastructure and clean mobility solutions — that connect people to opportunity.
We empower Africa’s youth through hands-on training in renewable energy, electric vehicle technology, and the green economy — creating jobs for a just, circular future.
Our Mission
At the African Sustainability Lab, we’re transforming urban living in Africa by addressing systemic challenges in food, mobility, and employment through entrepreneurial, circular economy solutions.
Our Vision
We envision vibrant cities where healthy food is accessible, mobility connects everyone to opportunity, and green jobs empower individuals. Our dream is an Africa where resources are reused, ecosystems are respected, and urban life supports human flourishing.
