As the demand for technology continues to rise, so does the issue of electronic waste (e-waste), a growing environmental concern. The 2022 National ICT Survey reveals that mobile phones account for 60.7% of Zambia’s e-waste, while batteries and radios make up 38% and 33%, respectively. In a bid to tackle this, Airtel Zambia, in partnership with the Zambia Information Communication Technology Authority (ZICTA), has launched a nationwide initiative aimed at raising awareness and offering practical solutions for responsible e-waste disposal.
The increasing usage of electronic devices in Zambia has brought with it the challenge of safely disposing of obsolete gadgets. Discarded mobile phones, radios, televisions, and batteries often contain hazardous materials, posing risks to both the environment and public health. Yet, these items often remain in homes, unused, or are disposed of improperly.
Recognizing the urgency of the issue, Airtel and ZICTA are introducing e-waste drop-off points across Airtel’s 61 stores nationwide. Community members, tech users, and businesses are encouraged to bring in old devices, which will be collected and disposed of through proper channels.
In today’s fast-evolving tech landscape, many users frequently upgrade their devices, leaving behind piles of unused gadgets. Airtel’s new e-waste campaign seeks to address this issue, providing a streamlined and accessible way for people to dispose of electronics. The drop-off points allow customers to safely hand over outdated items, such as mobile phones, televisions, and radios, ensuring they are processed in an environmentally responsible manner.
For Airtel, the push towards sustainable tech practices is more than a corporate responsibility—it’s a necessity. Martin Jowi, Airtel’s Supply Chain Management Director, emphasized that environmental protection is central to Airtel’s operations. He noted that while the tech industry drives innovation, it must also find solutions to the environmental challenges it creates. Airtel’s initiative marks a significant step towards reducing e-waste and promoting responsible tech consumption.
ZICTA, which oversees the country’s ICT regulations, is playing a key role in supporting this campaign. Elliot Kabelo, ZICTA’s Manager of Standards and Electronic Networks, highlighted the importance of public awareness in addressing Zambia’s growing e-waste problem. He expressed optimism about the collaboration with Airtel, recognizing that joint efforts between the private sector and regulators are crucial for creating a sustainable future.
For Zambia’s tech community, the issue of e-waste is not just an environmental one—it’s about responsible innovation. Electronics are filled with valuable materials that can be recovered and reused, but without proper disposal mechanisms, these resources are lost, and harmful materials end up in landfills. Airtel and ZICTA’s campaign encourage a shift in mindset towards sustainable consumption, ensuring that Zambia’s tech growth doesn’t come at the cost of environmental degradation.
Tech enthusiasts, businesses, and consumers alike are invited to make use of Airtel’s e-waste drop-off points. With easy access at all 61 stores across the country, responsibly disposing of electronic waste has never been more straightforward. This initiative provides a vital service to Zambia’s tech ecosystem, helping users give back to the environment by simply handing over old devices.
As Zambia continues to embrace the digital era, tackling e-waste is crucial for safeguarding the environment and ensuring that future tech innovations remain sustainable.
