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Uganda Launches Nationwide E-Waste Collection Campaign, Urges Safe Disposal
Uganda has launched a nationwide campaign to improve the collection and disposal of electronic waste. The initiative encourages households to separate discarded electronics from ordinary garbage, use designated collection channels and protect personal information before recycling devices.
By Paul Ploumis
Published: November 2, 2026
Key Points
- National campaign: Uganda is promoting separate collection and responsible disposal of discarded electronic equipment.
- Collection: Households are encouraged to use designated e-waste collection points and separate bins.
- Data security: Officials advise protecting personal information before disposing of phones, computers and storage devices.
- Recycling policy: The government is developing measures to encourage waste recovery and reuse.
- Public awareness: The campaign was highlighted during the fourth National Cleaning Day in Lira City.
MONTREAL (Scrap Monster): Uganda has launched a nationwide electronic waste management campaign as growing technology use increases the volume of obsolete phones, computers and other electrical equipment requiring responsible disposal.
The campaign was highlighted in Lira City on October 31 during the country's fourth National Cleaning Day. The Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, working with the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), is promoting better collection, sorting and disposal practices.
Health Minister Dr Chris Baryomunsi, representing the Prime Minister, urged households to keep old phones, batteries, chargers, televisions, computers and radios separate from ordinary domestic garbage.
ScrapMonster Edge: Safe E-Waste Collection Begins Before Recycling
Uganda's campaign addresses two distinct challenges in electronics disposal: keeping discarded devices out of mixed household waste and protecting the personal data they contain.
Separate collection helps direct electronics toward appropriate handling and recovery channels. But phones, laptops and storage devices may also retain sensitive information, making secure data removal an important step before equipment changes hands.
Industry takeaway: Effective e-waste management requires more than collection bins. Accessible collection points, clear handling procedures and practical guidance on data security are all important to building a responsible recovery system.
Uganda Urges Households to Separate Electronic Waste
Baryomunsi warned against mixing discarded electronics with food scraps, plant waste and other household refuse. He encouraged residents to use designated collection points and separate waste containers.
He also called for cleanliness, hygiene and sanitation to become everyday responsibilities rather than activities limited to the monthly National Cleaning Day.
As part of that effort, the government plans to introduce a cleanliness competition among Uganda's 10 cities to encourage stronger sanitation practices and greater participation from local authorities and residents.
Government and UCC Expand E-Waste Awareness
Minister of ICT and National Guidance Kasule Lumumba said the initiative responds to the growing number of electronic devices reaching the end of their useful lives as technology adoption increases.
She noted that many households lack clear information about the appropriate disposal of obsolete electronics.
The ministry and UCC are therefore working to establish and promote collection and disposal channels that allow electronic equipment to be handled separately from conventional household waste.
Officials Highlight Personal Data Security Before Disposal
Lumumba also warned that old electronic devices may still contain personal and sensitive information.
She urged users to consult qualified professionals when necessary to retrieve or securely erase information before surrendering phones, laptops, flash drives and other storage devices for disposal.
The guidance adds a data-security consideration to the campaign's broader environmental objectives, particularly for consumers and businesses discarding equipment that has stored personal or confidential information.
Recycling Policy and City Cleanliness Initiatives Advance
Uganda is also developing a policy intended to promote waste recycling and opportunities to convert discarded materials into useful products, according to Lumumba.
The Lira City campaign formed part of wider National Cleaning Day activities involving businesses, organizations and residents cleaning public spaces and surrounding areas.
Lira City Woman MP Jane Ruth Aceng praised the community's participation and called for responsible sorting and disposal practices to continue beyond the national exercise.
Government officials emphasized that better waste management, sanitation and hygiene can help prevent disease outbreaks, protect the environment and support healthier communities.
Courtesy: www.trendsnafrica.com