CRAN, Hulina kick of e-waste, plastic campaign

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Staff reporter

Namibia is facing a growing challenge from electronic waste (e-waste) and plastic pollution. As technology advances and demand for electronic devices increases, discarded electronics containing hazardous substances threaten both the environment and public health.

To address this, the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) has partnered with Hulina Offshore Energy to launch a national awareness campaign promoting responsible e-waste and plastic disposal. E-waste includes items such as smartphones, computers, TVs and household appliances. Many of these devices contain toxic substances like lead, mercury, cadmium and flame retardants, which can leach into soil and water if improperly disposed of. Plastic components further contribute to pollution, harming wildlife, marine ecosystems, and communities.

Under a 2026 agreement, CRAN and Hulina will raise public awareness, encourage proper disposal practices, and support improved waste management across Namibia. CRAN will provide communication expertise and regulatory guidance, sponsoring N$15 000 for educational materials, media outreach, and campaign promotion.

CRAN will also coordinate with the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, and local authorities to reach communities nationwide.

Hulina Offshore Energy will support the campaign with technical expertise, logistics, community collection drives, and volunteer mobilisation, ensuring awareness efforts are paired with practical disposal solutions.

Schools, businesses, and community groups will be engaged through media campaigns, educational programmes, and public events, highlighting recycling, responsible disposal, and Namibia’s Extended Producer Responsibility framework.

The two-year campaign will feature nationwide collection drives, school outreach, stakeholder workshops, and pilot recycling projects, with progress monitored via participation rates, waste volumes, media reach, and community feedback.

By combining regulatory leadership, corporate expertise, and community participation, the CRAN-Hulina partnership aims to foster responsible environmental practices, reduce e-waste and plastic pollution, and contribute to a cleaner, healthier Namibia.