JAPAN PUMPS OVER US$900,000 INTO ZAMBIA’S E-WASTE PROJECT TO CREATE GREEN JOBS FOR YOUTH

By ZR Reporter

The Government of Japan has committed more than US$900,000 (approximately K22 million) to support a new electronic waste (e-waste) management project aimed at creating jobs for young people while promoting environmental sustainability in Zambia.

The initiative, launched by the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), will benefit 100 young people, including women and persons with disabilities, drawn from Chisamba, Chibombo, Kabwe, Kapiri Mposhi and Mumbwa districts in Central Province.

Speaking during the launch, Central Province Permanent Secretary Dr. Milner Mwanakampwe described the project as more than just an environmental intervention, saying it represents an opportunity to empower young people through green jobs and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Mwanakampwe thanked the Government of Japan for its continued support, noting that the partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to building resilient communities through practical and environmentally sustainable solutions.

He said electronic waste, if poorly managed, poses serious risks to both public health and the environment because it contains hazardous substances capable of contaminating soil and water sources.

However, he added that when properly collected, sorted and recycled, discarded electronic devices can become a valuable economic resource capable of creating employment and supporting Zambia’s transition to a green economy.

Japan’s Deputy Chief of Mission to Zambia, Mr. Horii Mizumoto, reaffirmed his country’s commitment to working closely with Zambia to expand green employment opportunities for young people while supporting the country’s environmental goals.

He said the strong relationship between Zambia and Japan would continue to drive initiatives that promote sustainable development and economic transformation.

Meanwhile, ILO Country Office Director for Zambia and Malawi, Mr. Wellington Chibebe, said electronic waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world, highlighting the urgent need for effective management systems.

Mr. Chibebe revealed that Zambia generated an estimated 23 million kilograms of electronic waste in 2022, underscoring the importance of investing in recycling and environmentally responsible disposal methods.

He said the project will not only help address the growing e-waste challenge but will also equip young people with practical skills that can translate into sustainable livelihoods.

Also speaking at the event, Ministry of Green Economy and Environment Director of Environmental Management, Mr. Richard Lungu, said the initiative forms part of Zambia’s broader shift towards a circular economy, where materials are reused, repaired, refurbished and recycled instead of being discarded after a single use.

He said embracing circular economy principles would help reduce waste, improve resource efficiency and unlock new economic opportunities while protecting the environment.

Government says the project reflects its commitment to ensuring that Zambia’s transition to a cleaner, greener economy creates opportunities for all citizens, particularly young people.

The launch attracted representatives from government institutions, the International Labour Organization, the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA), the Zambia Federation of Employers, the Zambia Congress of Trade Unions and other stakeholders working to promote sustainable development.

© Zambia Reports | Environment Desk