The International Electrotechnical Commission Global Impact Fund (IEC-GIF) has Tuesday announced the kick-off of its flagship initiative, “Catalysing Innovation for Circular Models in Africa – Turning Battery E-Waste into E-Resources,” marking a significant step towards sustainable battery e-waste management in Kenya.
With an investment of approximately Ksh 58 million, this project is at the forefront of supporting Small Medium Enterprises-led environmental innovation, promising economic growth and sustainability over its two-year duration.
Matthew Doherty, Senior Advisor and Officer of the IEC-GIF, underscored the importance of local collaboration during his today’s courtesy call to the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) and the Kenya National Committee of the International Electrotechnical Commission (KNCIEC), which aimed to deepen the engagement with Differ Community Power (DCP), the Implementing Partner in Kenya, and explore KEBS’ integral role in the project.
Reflecting on the initiative’s significance, Esther Ngari, Managing Director of KEBS, expressed her enthusiasm: “This partnership with the IEC Global Impact Fund represents a pivotal moment for Kenya in leading sustainable practices within Africa. By turning battery e-waste into valuable resources, we’re not just addressing an environmental challenge; we’re setting a precedent for innovation and circular economy models that can be replicated across the continent. We’re honoured to be part of this transformative journey.”
Kenya’s selection as the first beneficiary of this inaugural fund represents a significant honor and opportunity.
The project’s success hinges not only on the immediate impact of the investment but also on demonstrating a sustainable model that can continue beyond the initial funding period.
Through this initiative, the IEC-GIF, together with DCP and local partners, aims to establish a blueprint for sustainable development that can be replicated across Africa and beyond.
Doherty stated, “It’s an honour to collaborate with Kenyan partners and stakeholders on this crucial initiative. Our goal is not just to mitigate the environmental impacts of battery e-waste but to spark a broader movement towards sustainability and innovation in the region.”
This collaborative effort between IEC-GIF, DCP, KNCIEC, and KEBS promises to pave the way for further innovation in environmental management, setting a benchmark for sustainability projects worldwide.
