Domestic tech innovators aiming to tackle Africa's electronic waste predicament

In the heart of Nigeria, Hinckley Recycling has recently launched a USD 5 million lithium-ion battery recycling facility in Ogun State. This facility processes approximately 10,000 individual lithium-ion batteries annually, exporting 25 tonnes of battery waste for recycling.

Meanwhile, in Rwanda, SLS Energy is making waves in the e-waste recycling sector, repurposing lithium-ion batteries from electric motorcycles and solar systems into modular power packs. The company, founded by Leandre Berwa, sees its work as a form of economic justice.

Against the backdrop of Africa's growing electric vehicle (EV) market, these initiatives are more crucial than ever. The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) forecasts that Africa's EV market will reach USD 17.41 billion this year, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.2%, hitting USD 28.3 billion by 2030.

However, the current state of e-waste management in Africa is concerning. Less than 1% of Africa's e-waste is formally collected and safely recycled. Hundreds of unofficial e-waste pickers scour sites like Ghana's e-waste graveyard, Agbogbloshie, for components containing precious metals like copper, cobalt, lithium, and others. These components are sold on the black market, where demand is high.

To address this issue, various companies are adopting innovative approaches to e-waste recycling. Cwenga, a South African company, is pursuing a decentralised model for lithium-ion battery recycling, emphasising safety and modularity. Cwenga's ion-exchange process extracts key metals without generating harmful secondary waste.

Similarly, Hinckley Recycling repurposes usable battery cells into modular power packs for mini-grids. In Nigeria, the company is not only recycling batteries but also contributing to the country's energy needs.

South Africa's 2021 EPR policy mandates that battery producers take back their products at end-of-life. This policy is a step towards formalising e-waste recycling in the country. Organisations like Eco Recycling SA operate in South Africa, providing a zinc-based (galvanized) solution for lithium-ion battery recycling, focusing on safe collection, transport, and compliant disposal of lithium-ion batteries from various applications.

As these initiatives continue to grow and gain momentum, the future of e-waste management in Africa looks promising. Companies like Hinckley Recycling, SLS Energy, and Cwenga are not only recycling e-waste but also creating opportunities for sustainable energy solutions, contributing to economic growth, and promoting environmental stewardship.

In 2023, SLS Energy helped divert more than 100 tonnes of battery waste from landfills. As they expand into Nigeria and Kenya, it is clear that they are committed to making a significant impact on Africa's e-waste management landscape. The battery market in Africa is forecast to reach USD 4.97 billion this year and grow to USD 6.82 billion by 2030. With the right policies and innovative solutions, it is possible to ensure that this growth is sustainable and responsible.