CHIBOMBO – Twenty youths have been selected in Chibombo District as beneficiaries and are set to benefit from the Sustainable E-Waste Management for Youth Employment in Central Province, Zambia Project, which is supported by the Government of Japan and implemented by the International Labour Organization (ILO).
The project aims to turn discarded electronic devices into opportunities for jobs, skills development, entrepreneurship and innovation among young people.
As part of the project, e-waste collection materials and equipment will be provided to support the selected beneficiaries and the Chibombo Town Council in establishing collection points across Keembe East, Keembe West and Katuba Constituencies.
The project comes at a time when electronic waste is increasingly becoming an environmental concern, with obsolete and unwanted electrical and electronic appliances such as mobile phones, computers, televisions and other devices requiring responsible handling and recycling.
The project encourages communities to use electronic devices responsibly, repair and refurbish devices where possible, recycle e-waste responsibly and protect the environment for future generations.
Beyond environmental protection, responsible e-waste management presents opportunities for young people to develop practical skills, establish businesses and generate employment through the collection, repair, refurbishment and recycling of electronic waste.
The 20 beneficiaries will therefore play an important role in promoting responsible e-waste management within their respective communities while exploring sustainable livelihood and entrepreneurship opportunities.
The project also calls on members of the public to avoid disposing of old electronic devices together with ordinary household waste and instead support responsible collection, repair, refurbishment and recycling.
Through collaboration between the Government of Japan, the ILO, Chibombo Town Council and other stakeholders, the project is expected to contribute to a cleaner environment while creating a pathway for young people to participate meaningfully in the circular economy.
Small actions can have a big impact, turning yesterday’s electronic waste into tomorrow’s jobs, skills, businesses and opportunities.
