From waste to opportunity, E-Waste project officially handed over in Limpopo
The ILO-supported E-Waste Project in South Africa, concluded on 20 March 2026 with a handover event marking its transition to local ownership. The initiative empowered 22 young people with skills in e-waste management, safety, and entrepreneurship, enabling them to build sustainable livelihoods. A key highlight was the handover of a fully equipped e-waste workstation, symbolizing continuity and future growth. The project leaves a lasting legacy of green jobs, strengthened partnerships, and a shift toward a circular economy where waste is transformed into opportunity.
23 March 2026
Mokgopong, South Africa (ILO News) - On 20 March 2026, a powerful moment of transition and impact unfolded in Modimolle-Mookgophong Local Municipality, as the E-Waste Project officially reached its close-out and handover phase. What began as an initiative to address electronic waste has evolved into a transformative programme, one that has created opportunity, restored dignity, and built pathways to sustainable livelihoods for young people in Limpopo.
The event brought together a high-level delegation, including the Director of the International Labour Organization (ILO) in Pretoria, the Ambassador of Japan to South Africa, government representatives, municipal leaders, training institutions, and project partners. Their presence reflected a shared commitment to advancing green jobs, strengthening local economies, and driving a circular future.
At the heart of the programme was a simple yet powerful message: waste is not waste until it is wasted.
Empowering youth, transforming futures
The project has directly impacted 22 young people, equipping them with technical skills in e-waste management, occupational safety and health, and entrepreneurship. Beyond training, the initiative focused on ensuring that beneficiaries could translate knowledge into income-generating opportunities.
For many of the young participants, this project marked a turning point, from uncertainty to purpose, from unemployment to enterprise.
Their voices echoed throughout the event, sharing stories of resilience, growth, and renewed hope. These were not just beneficiaries of a project, they are now entrepreneurs, environmental stewards, and agents of change within their communities.
A symbol of continuity, the workstation handover
A defining highlight of the day was the unveiling and handover of the e-waste container workstation, a practical and symbolic investment in the future of the beneficiaries.
More than just infrastructure, the workstation represents continuity. It provides a dedicated, safe, and equipped space for dismantling and managing electronic waste, enabling beneficiaries to operate their businesses sustainably and at scale.
As the ribbon was cut, it signified more than the end of a project; it marked the beginning of ownership.
The Ambassador of Japan underscored the importance of partnerships in driving impactful development, noting how collective action can unlock solutions that benefit both people and the planet.
Looking Ahead: A Circular Future
As the event concluded, the atmosphere was one of celebration, reflection, and forward momentum. Certificates were awarded, partnerships reaffirmed, and a shared vision strengthened.
While the project has officially come to a close, its legacy continues in the hands of empowered young entrepreneurs, in strengthened local systems, and in communities that now see waste as a resource rather than a burden.
The E-Waste Project stands as a testament to what is possible when innovation, partnership, and purpose come together.
From waste to opportunity the journey continues.
Relevant projects
South Africa
E-waste for youth employment in Limpopo Province Project