Driving sustainable futures: E-Waste for Youth Employment Project launched in Limpopo

POLOKWANE, South Africa – Stakeholders from government, international organizations, the private sector, civil society, and the youth gathered at the Protea Hotel The Ranch in Polokwane to officially launch the E-Waste for Youth Employment in Limpopo Project. The initiative, implemented by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in partnership with the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and the Environment (DFFE), the Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism (LEDET), and funded by the Government of Japan, seeks to tackle two pressing challenges: youth unemployment and environmental degradation.

© ILO

© ILO

The event was marked by vibrant discussions, reflections from young e-waste entrepreneurs, noting their challenges in navigating the industry yet revealing a strong commitment and passion to driving sustainable solutions that impact their communities while preserving the environment. Partners including EWASA, Canon South Africa, and TVET institutions offered messages of support, committing to partnering with the project in ensuring the project objectives are efficiently executed.

Government representatives and development partners reaffirmed their commitment to creating green jobs while safeguarding the environment. Statements of commitment from the DFFE, ILO, and the Embassy of Japan underscored the shared vision of building inclusive opportunities while responding to the global e-waste challenge.

The support of Japan in the form of 1.5 million dollars towards the project signifies the proactive steps being taken to address several challenges that Limpopo has. This one year initiative is not just about training and employment, it is about creating a paradigm shift” Japan Embassy Secon Secretary, Mr Januma

Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Mafu Nkosi, Chief Director of LEDET, emphasized the importance of partnerships in driving sustainable development:

This project is more than a project; it is a catalyst for sustainable change, enabling young people to become active drivers of environmental solutions in Limpopo.

The launch brought together a broad coalition of stakeholders, signalling strong readiness to collaborate on building a sustainable, inclusive, and green economy. By creating skills pathways, fostering entrepreneurship, and strengthening recycling ecosystems, the project aims to leave a lasting impact on communities in Limpopo and beyond.

As the project moves into full implementation, the spirit of collaboration demonstrated at the launch sets a strong foundation for innovative solutions, job creation, and environmental sustainability.