African island states are heavily dependent on the extraction of natural resources, while accumulating considerable amounts of waste. As these states and others in Africa pursue the development of sustainable Blue Economies, there are significant opportunities to adopt and scale circular economy practices. The three principles of a circular economy are: the elimination of waste and pollution, the circulation of products and materials (at their highest value), and the regeneration of nature. Across these three pillars, numerous good practice examples are emerging among African island states, but appropriate policy action and multi-stakeholder partnerships are needed if these are to be scaled. This policy insight highlights five key action areas: anchoring the circular economy within policy frameworks and regulations; increasing awareness of circular economy principles and methods; using waste management as an opportunity to improve material stock management; putting natural restoration at the centre of the economy; and incentivising businesses to transition to circular practices.