Turning awareness into action, Limpopo Province hosts International E-Waste Day 2025

Lepelle-Nkumpi, South Africa. (ILO News) -The Civic Centre in Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality came alive last week as the International Labour Organization (ILO), in collaboration with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), the Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism (LEDET), and the Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality (LNM), hosted an awareness event in celebration of International E-Waste Day 2025 under the theme:

“Recycle Your E-waste – It’s Critical!”

Observed globally each October, International E-Waste Day raises awareness about the environmental, health, and social impacts of electronic waste, while promoting sustainable recycling and circular economy solutions.Opening the event, Cllr Dr Merriam Molala, Executive Mayor of Lepelle-Nkumpi, welcomed delegates and emphasized the municipality’s commitment to sustainable waste management.

E-waste is not just a local challenge; it is a global issue that affects our communities, our youth, and our future,” she said.

The day’s programme featured a keynote address by Ms. Mpho Rabambi from the DFFE, who underscored the urgency of addressing South Africa’s growing e-waste stream and called for greater collaboration between government, industry, and citizens.

“Every discarded device is an opportunity. An opportunity to protect the planet, recover valuable materials, and create green jobs,” she noted.

From Awareness to Action

In a spirited panel discussion moderated by Ms. Cebisile Nyambe, ILO Technical Officer, representatives from LEDET, DFFE, TVET Colleges, entrepreneurs, and the e-Waste Association of South Africa (EWASA) CANON South Africa, discussed innovative solutions to reduce, recover, and repurpose electronic waste.

The conversation highlighted the need for:

• Strengthened policy frameworks to formalize e-waste management.
• Expanded skills training and entrepreneurship support for youth and women.
• Greater investment in safe and decent work within the recycling value chain.

“E-waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams globally, posing significant risks to people and the planet. Through this celebration, we aim to inspire communities to turn awareness into action,” said Nyambe.

The day also featured a creative poetic performance by a local learner from Bela-Bela, whose piece captured the spirit of responsibility and hope embodied in the day’s theme. Interactive activities such as an e-waste quiz engaged attendees in fun, educational learning moments. CANON partnered with ILO to deliver some great prizes to the schools presents at the awareness activity.

A key highlight was the launch of a provincial E-waste Collection Drive led by Mr. Tshepo Maselela from LEDET as well as a Pledge Ceremony, committing to promote responsible recycling and support initiatives that advance circular economy practices.

© ILO

© ILO

The event concluded with an exhibition and networking session, it was clear that the message resonated: responsible e-waste management is not just about waste — it is about building sustainable livelihoods, protecting the planet, and powering inclusive green growth.

About the Partners:
The event was organized by the ILO, DFFE, LEDET, and Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality funded by the Government of Japan.