One of the greatest challenges Nairobi faces today is waste management and disposal. Plastic bags form major contributor to the waste disposed by every household in Nairobi.
During my campaigns, I pledged to deliver a cleaner, healthier city. And I choose to stick to my promise.
Despite the huge inconvenience the ban may cause to the manufacturers, the business community and consumers, we all have to agree that we have a duty to conserve and protect our environment for future generations.
I wish to state categorically that I am in full support of the ban. That is why my administration has embarked on elaborate discussions with producers of eco-friendly bags that are 100% biodegradable, alongside key sector players including the Ministry of Environment and the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA).
In the next few days, my administration will not only provide these eco-friendly bags made from corn and cassava starch to households for waste disposal, but support the establishment of new factories and conversion of existing ones to manufacture them.
This will not only provide thousands of jobs for our youth, but also provide an alternative to our traders and residents, in compliance with the law.
I look forward to the support of all of you as we make Nairobi the “Green City in the Sun” again.
H.E. MIKE MBUVI SONKO
GOVERNOR
Nairobi City County