Uganda Gov’t Seeks World Bank Funding for Centralized E-Waste Management Facility

Summary:

• The Ugandan government is negotiating with the World Bank to fund a centralized e-waste management facility to safely dispose of obsolete electronics. Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja outlined ongoing efforts, including the establishment of a collection center in Kampala, and plans to expand infrastructure with regional centers.

---

The Ugandan government is in discussions with the World Bank to secure financial support for the construction of a centralized e-waste management facility aimed at safely handling the disposal of obsolete electronics in the country. This was revealed by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja during the recent Prime Minister’s Question Time in Parliament, where she responded to inquiries from Hellen Kahunde, the Kiryadongo District Woman Representative. Kahunde had asked for details on the government’s efforts to manage e-waste effectively.

“E-waste management is vital for both development and environmental sustainability. It involves the safe disposal and recycling of electronic items like mobile phones, computers, and printers that are no longer in use,” Kahunde emphasized.

Nabbanja explained that Uganda’s current e-waste infrastructure remains underdeveloped, but the government has taken steps to address this. In June 2021, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) launched an e-waste collection center in Kampala’s Industrial Area. This facility is responsible for basic e-waste activities such as collection, sorting, and dismantling.

To further enhance the country’s e-waste management capabilities, the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, in collaboration with the World Bank, is leading efforts to build a central e-waste management facility along with regional collection centers. These initiatives aim to improve long-term collection, recycling, and refurbishment of electronic waste.

In addition to these governmental efforts, private companies such as BIN It, Nabugabo Up Deal Joint Venture, and Meridian Waste (U) Ltd have been licensed by NEMA to handle various e-waste management tasks, including sorting, dismantling, and disposal.

The Prime Minister also outlined ongoing measures to strengthen the country’s e-waste management framework. These include revising the 2012 e-waste policy, conducting readiness assessments of e-waste collection centers, evaluating the infrastructure needed for e-waste management facilities, and building the capacity of industry players through training and engagement.

Nabbanja highlighted the importance of international cooperation with the World Bank, particularly as the challenge of managing e-waste grows with rapid technological advancements. “New electronic devices are increasingly complex, incorporating materials like metals, glass, and plastics, making their disposal more challenging. The government is committed to developing sustainable solutions, including the establishment of an e-waste management fund and implementing extended producer responsibility schemes,” she said.

These combined efforts, Nabbanja emphasized, are essential for reducing the environmental impact of e-waste and promoting sustainable development in Uganda.