As Uganda progresses toward becoming a leading digital hub in Africa, the government, through the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, is taking significant steps to tackle the challenges associated with electronic waste (e-waste).
The rapid expansion of information and communications technology (ICT) across various sectors has brought e-waste to the forefront as a pressing issue that poses risks to both the environment and public health.
In response, the government is implementing strategic measures to manage e-waste sustainably, thereby ensuring environmental protection while fostering economic growth.
According to the United Nations’ 2024 Global E-Waste Monitor report, the generation of electronic waste is increasing at a rate five times faster than the global capacity for recycling. Currently, fewer than 25% of e-waste items are subjected to formal recycling processes, with much of it ending up in landfills, which can lead to significant environmental harm.
In Uganda, this challenge is exacerbated by the rapid adoption of mobile devices, e-governance initiatives, and the expanding digital economy, all of which contribute to the growing volumes of electronic waste.
To address this issue comprehensively, the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance is spearheading a national initiative aimed at effective e-waste management, which seeks to transform electronic waste into a valuable resource.
Uganda’s digital transformation has ushered in notable progress; however, without a robust framework for e-waste management, the country faces potential environmental degradation, public health concerns, and economic setbacks.
The government has already undertaken significant measures to confront the e-waste challenge. In 2012, the ministry developed Uganda’s first e-waste management policy, followed by the introduction of the guidelines for managing e-waste in 2016.
These initiatives were further enhanced by the 2020 National Environment (Waste Management) Regulations, which specifically focus on the pressing issue of e-waste.
As part of the solution, the ministry is working to establish a national e-waste facility in Kampala, in conjunction with regional centres designed to process electronic waste efficiently. These centres will facilitate recycling while also creating opportunities for training, research, and job creation, thereby contributing to the development of a green economy in Uganda.
By converting waste into valuable resources, Uganda aspires to establish itself as a leader in sustainable e-waste management within the region.
This initiative is guided by the principle of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), which will mandate producers and importers of electronic devices to take responsibility for the management of their products at the end of their life cycle.
Ministry of ICT and National Guidance is spearheading a national initiative aimed at effective e-waste management
This policy aims to ensure that electronic waste is handled in an environmentally responsible manner, with active participation from all stakeholders involved in the process.
“Our objective is to ensure that technology does not leave a detrimental impact on our environment,” stated Ochero Michael, Commissioner at the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance.
“We aim to develop Uganda’s digital economy while prioritising environmental conservation and public health. This e-waste initiative represents a vital step toward achieving a sustainable and resilient digital economy.”
Furthermore, the government is prioritising public-private partnerships (PPPs) to ensure the long-term sustainability of recycling centres and foster green job creation within the framework of a circular economy.
Public awareness campaigns will be integral in educating citizens about safe disposal practices and the importance of recycling e-waste.
