Back to Policy Hub
Bamako Convention
The Bamako Convention is a treaty of African nations prohibiting the import into Africa of any hazardous (including radioactive) waste.
Adoption Date
1991
Status
Ratified by 29 African nations
Key Provisions vs Basel
Africa's own response to the perceived weaknesses of the Basel Convention.
Unlike the original Basel Convention which allowed hazardous waste trade under the Prior Informed Consent (PIC) procedure, the Bamako Convention explicitly bans the import of all hazardous and radioactive waste into Africa from non-contracting parties.
- Total ban on the import of hazardous wastes into Africa
- Prohibition of dumping at sea
- Control of transboundary movement within Africa
Relevance to E-Waste
The Bamako Convention covers waste that is legally defined as hazardous in the country of manufacture, even if not covered by Basel. This makes it a powerful legal tool against the dumping of obsolete electronics and used appliances that contain toxic components.