Zambia, Japan and ILO Launch E-Waste Project to Support Green Jobs and Circular Economy

The Government of Zambia, the Government of Japan and the International Labour Organization (ILO) have launched the Sustainable E-Waste Management for Youth Employment Project in Zambia’s Central Province. Funded by Japan, the initiative aims to improve electronic waste management while creating employment opportunities for young people, women and persons with disabilities.

The project combines environmental protection with workforce development by promoting sustainable e-waste collection and recycling, supporting green enterprises and equipping participants with skills for jobs in the circular economy. It forms part of Zambia’s broader efforts to strengthen environmental management while advancing inclusive economic growth.

The initiative also reflects Japan’s support for green development in Africa through technical cooperation and capacity building. According to the Japanese Embassy, the project aligns with the objectives of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD), which promotes sustainable development and waste management across the continent.

Deputy Chief of Mission of Japan to Zambia Horii Mizumoto said the project addresses two major national priorities simultaneously. “The Sustainable E-Waste Management for Youth Employment Project tackles two of Zambia’s most pressing challenges at once: unemployment and environmental protection.”

He said the programme will promote green job creation, expand circular economy practices and strengthen employment opportunities for youth, women and persons with disabilities while showcasing Japanese expertise in sustainable e-waste management.

Dr. Milner Mwanakampwe, Permanent Secretary for Zambia's Central Province, said the partnership demonstrates the shared commitment of Zambia and Japan to addressing environmental issues while creating economic opportunities.

Representatives of employers and workers also welcomed the initiative. Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) President Blake Mulala said the project shows that environmental sustainability and decent work can be pursued together, stressing the importance of worker protections, occupational safety and social dialogue during the transition to a greener economy.

Harrington Chibanda, Executive Director of the Zambia Federation of Employers (ZFE), said the private sector has a central role in developing green industries. He noted that investment in innovative e-waste management can support entrepreneurship while creating new business and employment opportunities.

ILO Country Office Director for Zambia and Malawi Wellington Chibebe said the project is intended to demonstrate that the transition to a low-carbon economy should also deliver inclusive and productive employment.

“The green transition must be a just transition. By equipping young people with relevant skills and promoting inclusive participation in the green economy, we are creating pathways to productive employment while addressing the growing challenge of e-waste.”

The project brings together government agencies, employer’ and workers’ organizations, development partners and local communities to improve e-waste management capacity and expand participation in Zambia's emerging green economy.

Source: ILO

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