IGAD is calling for responsible collection and recycling of discarded electronics.
The regional bloc calls on governments, businesses and consumers to repair, reuse and recycle electronics as discarded devices threaten communities and ecosystems.
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has urged regional countries to strengthen e-waste recycling and collection as digital adoption grows. The bloc wants governments, businesses and citizens to repair, reuse and responsibly recycle electronic equipment rather than discard it.
In a message following International E-Waste Day on October 14, IGAD linked sustainable digital progress to better waste management. It also warned that hazardous materials in discarded devices threaten people and the environment.
IGAD calls for stronger e-waste recycling systems
The IGAD Secretariat said the region must match its digital transformation with sustainable practices. Its appeal centres on extending device lifespans, improving collection systems and keeping hazardous materials out of ecosystems.
Rather than throwing equipment away, the organisation urged users to consider repair and reuse. It also called for responsible recycling when electronic devices reach the end of their useful lives.
The bloc placed responsibility on both public authorities and the private sector, alongside individual consumers. Together, these groups have a role in improving how the region handles discarded electronics.
IGAD said longer device lifespans and stronger collection systems would help protect communities and ecosystems. These measures would also support a more sustainable digital future across the region.
Global electronic waste reaches record levels
Meanwhile, the Global E-waste Monitor 2024 shows the scale of the worldwide disposal challenge. The world generated a record 62 billion kilogrammes of electronic waste in 2022, averaging 7.8 kilogrammes per person.
However, documented formal collection and environmentally sound recycling accounted for only 22.3 per cent of that total. This amounted to 13.8 billion kilogrammes.
Annual electronic waste volumes nearly doubled between 2010 and 2022. Over that period, waste generation grew almost five times faster than documented formal collection and recycling.
The report links the increase to rapid technological change, rising consumption and short device lifespans. Limited repair options and inadequate waste management infrastructure also contribute to the problem.
Campaign highlights small electronic items
The Waste from Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Forum established International E-Waste Day in 2018. The annual observance raises awareness and encourages responsible disposal of electronic equipment.
The theme highlighted in the appeal, “Recycle it all, no matter how small!”, focuses on smaller devices. These items often end up in ordinary household rubbish, making them an important part of the recycling message.
IGAD’s call similarly emphasises responsible handling of electronics throughout their useful lives, not just at disposal.
