This report outlines strategies to improve e-waste management for lighting, cooling, and photovoltaic equipment in the SADC and EAC regions. It includes a detailed situation analysis, presenting generation data, current regulations, and regional initiatives. The analysis highlights the technical challenges and opportunities in refurbishing, dismantling, and recycling these waste streams, emphasizing the need for policies that address logistics and the entire value chain to support a circular economy.

A regional strategy, modeled after the EACO approach, is proposed for the EAC and SADC regions to harmonize efforts and establish a robust Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework. This framework would provide legal and administrative support, create business opportunities, and facilitate knowledge transfer, enabling effective national policy development. Steps for launching an EPR framework are also outlined to help countries identify gaps and plan next steps, regardless of their current implementation stage.

The report concludes by emphasizing the importance of funding, stakeholder engagement, and public awareness as essential elements for effective policy enforcement and sustainable e-waste management.