Published on 16/12/2024
Ugandan government is in talks with the World Bank to secure funding for a centralized electronic waste management facility. This initiative aims to tackle the growing challenge of safely disposing obsolete electronics. By building this facility, Uganda seeks to protect both the environment and public health.
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja revealed this during the recent Prime Minister’s Question Time in Parliament while responding to a query from Hellen Kahunde (Kiryadongo District Woman Representative). Kahunde sought clarification on government initiatives for e-waste disposal and management.
“E-waste management is critical for development and environmental protection. It entails the safe disposal and reuse of electronic products such as computers, mobile phones, and printers that are no longer in use,” said Kahunde.
Nabbanja explained that, while the country’s e-waste management infrastructure remains rudimentary, the government, through National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and National Enterprise Corporation (NEC), established an e-waste collection center in Kampala’s Industrial Area in June 2021. The center handles basic e-waste activities, including collection, sorting, and dismantling.
To address the gaps, Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, with World Bank support, is spearheading efforts to establish a central e-waste management facility and regional collection centers. The project aims to enhance e-waste collection, refurbishment, and recycling over the long term.
In addition, private companies such as BIN IT, Nabugabo Up Deal Joint Venture and Meridian Waste (U) Ltd have been licensed by NEMA to manage e-waste collection, sorting, dismantling and disposal.
Nabbanja also highlighted ongoing government measures to improve e-waste management, including:
- Reviewing the 2012 e-waste policy.
- Conducting readiness assessments of e-waste collection centers.
- Evaluating infrastructure and process requirements for e-waste management facilities.
- Building the capacity of handlers through training programs and stakeholder engagement.
The Prime Minister underscored the need for collaboration with the World Bank, citing the growing challenge of managing e-waste due to the rapid evolution of electronics and technology.
“New devices are becoming more sophisticated and are manufactured with a mix of materials such as metals, glass and plastics, making disposal complex. The government is committed to devising sustainable strategies, including establishing an e-waste management fund and implementing extended producer responsibility schemes,” she said.
These efforts, Nabbanja noted, are critical to mitigating the environmental risks posed by e-waste and fostering sustainable development in Uganda.
