The Government of Zambia, the Government of Japan and the International Labour Organization (ILO) have launched the Japan-funded Sustainable E-Waste Management for Youth Employment Project in Central Province, a landmark initiative aimed at addressing environmental challenges while creating decent and inclusive employment opportunities for young people.
The project seeks to promote sustainable e-waste management practices, support green enterprise development and create jobs for youth, women and persons with disabilities, contributing to Zambia's environmental protection and economic transformation agenda.
Speaking at the launch, Deputy Chief of Mission of Japan to the Republic of Zambia, Mr. Horii Mizumoto, described the initiative as a practical response to two of Zambia's most pressing challenges.
"I am pleased to highlight that the Sustainable E-Waste Management for Youth Employment Project tackles two of Zambia's most pressing challenges at once: unemployment and environmental protection," said Mr. Mizumoto.
He noted that the project reflects Japan's commitment to promoting green growth and inclusive development through job creation, circular economy solutions and skills development.
"Through this initiative, Japan is promoting green job creation, advancing the circular economy and expanding inclusive employment opportunities for youth, women and persons with disabilities. The project also showcases Japanese innovation and expertise in delivering sustainable e-waste management solutions in Southern Africa, contributing to the waste management and sustainable development objectives of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD)," he said.
Guest of Honour, Dr. Milner Mwanakampwe, Permanent Secretary for Central Province, commended the strong partnership between the Government of the Republic of Zambia and the Embassy of Japan in Zambia.
"This partnership demonstrates our shared commitment to addressing environmental challenges and youth unemployment while promoting green jobs and sustainable development," said Dr. Mwanakampwe.
He said the initiative would equip young people, women and persons with disabilities with valuable skills and economic opportunities while contributing to environmental sustainability and inclusive economic growth.
Representing workers, Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) President Mr. Blake Mulala welcomed the project's emphasis on decent work, inclusion and social dialogue.
"As workers, we welcome this initiative because it demonstrates that environmental sustainability and job creation can go hand in hand. The transition to a green economy must create decent, productive and secure employment opportunities for young people while upholding workers' rights and occupational safety and health standards," said Mr. Mulala.
He added that the project provides a practical model for achieving inclusive growth by empowering youth, women and persons with disabilities with skills and opportunities in emerging green sectors.
"Through social dialogue and strong partnerships, we can ensure that no one is left behind in Zambia's journey towards a sustainable future," he said.
Speaking on behalf of employers, Zambia Federation of Employers (ZFE) Executive Director Mr. Harrington Chibanda underscored the private sector's critical role in driving sustainable development and green growth.
"The private sector is a critical partner in building a green economy. This project presents a unique opportunity to develop skills, foster entrepreneurship and create sustainable employment for young people," said Mr. Chibanda.
He added that investment in innovative e-waste management solutions would help protect the environment while creating new business and employment opportunities.
"By investing in innovative e-waste management solutions, we can protect the environment while unlocking new business and employment opportunities, particularly for youth, women and persons with disabilities," he said.
Meanwhile, ILO Country Office Director for Zambia and Malawi, Mr. Wellington Chibebe, emphasized the importance of ensuring that environmental sustainability initiatives generate decent work and support a just transition to a greener economy.
"The green transition must be a just transition. Through the Sustainable E-Waste Management for Youth Employment Project, we are demonstrating that environmental sustainability and decent work can go hand in hand," said Mr. Chibebe.
He noted that the project would equip young people with relevant skills while addressing the growing challenge of electronic waste.
"By equipping young people with relevant skills and promoting inclusive participation in the green economy, we are creating pathways to productive employment while addressing the growing challenge of e-waste," he said.
Mr. Chibebe further observed that the initiative illustrates the power of partnerships in advancing sustainable development.
"This partnership demonstrates how governments, employers, workers, development partners and communities can work together to deliver lasting social, economic and environmental impact," he said.
The Sustainable E-Waste Management for Youth Employment Project reflects the shared commitment of the Government of Zambia, the Government of Japan, the International Labour Organization, employers' and workers' organizations, and other stakeholders to advance environmental sustainability, inclusive growth and decent work for all, while supporting Zambia's transition to a greener and more resilient economy.
