Solar E-Waste Management in Africa
Context
Triple Jump and Cygnum Capital are separate impact-focused investment managers operating across Africa. Triple Jump manages the Energy Entrepreneurs Growth Fund, while Cygnum Capital manages the Africa Go Green Fund for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency and the Off-Grid Energy Access Fund. Collectively, these funds support early- and growth-stage companies in the off-grid solar (OGS) and renewable energy sectors through investment and Technical Assistance Facilities (TAFs).
Challenge
OGS e-waste is a material ESG and reputational risk for investment funds, thereby mandating targeted and practical action, especially from TAFs. As investment is provided individually to OGS companies, investees need to lower company-level ESG risks such as solar e-waste through tailored individual support, unlocking market-level benefits that go beyond individual companies.
Solution
Leveraging our deep expertise in e-waste and circular economy in emerging markets, dss+ co-designed and delivered a four-phase TA programme tailored to the operational realities of the companies. With our strong facilitation and advisory skills, we produced several knowledge products and ran collaborative workshops, delivered across 3 investment funds and 15 portfolio companies across 10 African countries.
“It was evident that you put great effort into ensuring that we gained not only technical knowledge but also practical insights that will be valuable in our work. Your extensive experience and strong industry network really enriched the sessions, with real-world perspectives and connections.”
Head of ESG at a portfolio company
Assignment
Design and deliver a joint TA programme to support the portfolio companies in developing e-waste management systems and fostering sector-wide collaboration.
Offering
Sustainability. Circular Economy and Resource Management.
Impact
- Reduced ESG and reputational risks: 11 companies improved e-waste policies and procedures; 7 created actionable implementation plans.
- Strengthened investor confidence by aligning ESG practices with funder expectations.
- Enhanced client visibility and credibility with donors, governments, and other investors for future blended finance opportunities.