•Urgent Call for Public Awareness on Proper E-Waste Management
Kenyan experts have raised concerns over the improper disposal of electronic waste (e-waste), warning that it poses severe environmental and health hazards.
The call for action comes as Kenya grapples with the challenge of managing the approximately 51,300 metric tonnes of e-waste generated annually, of which only five percent(5%) is properly recycled.
Health and Environmental Dangers of E-Waste
Richard Masori, an officer from the ICT Authority, has emphasized the urgent need to educate the public on responsible e-waste disposal.
He warned that electronic waste contains highly toxic substances such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, which can cause long-term health complications, including brain and respiratory system damage.
“These compounds have strong neurodevelopmental and behavioral effects, particularly in children. Lead and mercury accumulate in the soil, disrupting its natural mineral composition.” Masori stated.
“When e-waste is burned, it releases toxic fumes that pose serious health risks when inhaled. Additionally, runoff water from waste disposal sites drains into rivers and lakes, endangering aquatic life,” he explained.
He further stressed the importance of ensuring that discarded electronics—such as computers, laptops, mobile phones, televisions, and refrigerators—are taken to designated recycling centers rather than being dumped or burned in open fields.
Turning Waste into a Resource
While e-waste presents significant dangers if mishandled, experts argue that it can also be a valuable resource when properly managed.
Masori highlighted that gold medals for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics were made from recycled electronic waste, proving that discarded electronics can be repurposed into high-value materials.
Diana Gicheru, a business associate at the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Centre, echoed this sentiment, stating that a significant portion of e-waste remains in the hands of individuals who are unaware of proper disposal methods.
This leads to the accumulation of hazardous waste in dump sites, where it is often burned, releasing harmful carbon emissions and exacerbating climate change.
Efforts to Improve E-Waste Collection and Recycling
To address this growing crisis, Gicheru revealed that WEEE has established multiple collection points across the country where Kenyans can drop off their unwanted electronics for safe disposal.
Additionally, young people are actively involved in e-waste collection as a means of earning an income.
“The youth go around collecting discarded phones, computers, laptops, and other electronics and bring them to our center for recycling. They receive a payment based on the quantity of e-waste collected,” she said.
Once gathered, the e-waste is transported to WEEE’s Nairobi facility, where it undergoes a thorough assessment to determine which items can be refurbished or repurposed.
“All collected items are tested to identify those with remaining value before they are dismantled. Reusable components are extracted, while the remaining waste is safely disposed of,” Gicheru explained.
The Need for National Action
With e-waste posing an increasing threat to both public health and the environment, experts are urging Kenyans to take a proactive role in responsible disposal.
Government agencies, environmental organizations, and the private sector are being called upon to invest in sustainable e-waste management programs, raise awareness, and strengthen recycling initiatives.
Proper e-waste disposal not only protects human health and the environment but also presents an opportunity to create jobs, recover valuable raw materials, and reduce the country’s carbon footprint.
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