The Kenya Extended Producer Responsibility Organization (KEPRO) urges business owners and manufacturers to take proactive steps to ensure that their waste service providers possess all the necessary and valid licenses and certifications.
The organization stresses the importance of verifying these credentials to avoid the risks associated with unlicensed or improperly regulated waste management practices. Additionally, KEPRO has called on businesses to insist on documented waste trails, which are crucial for ensuring traceability. This will not only help maintain transparency throughout the waste management process but also contribute to the overall effectiveness of the waste disposal system.
Residents and institutions have also been advised to request proof of authorization from waste collectors before handing over any waste. Specifically, they should demand proof of authorization from the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and the Nairobi City County Government (NCCG). This will guarantee that their waste is being handled by legitimate, licensed professionals.
On the other hand, waste handlers have been encouraged to maintain transparent records throughout the entire process, from collection to disposal. This level of documentation is vital for ensuring accountability and tracking waste management activities.
These new guidelines come at a time when the Nairobi City County Government has introduced new measures aimed at curbing illegal dumpsites and restructuring the city’s waste management systems. The County’s efforts include the phasing out of unregulated private waste collectors and the enforcement of stricter licensing protocols for waste handlers. These actions are part of an overarching strategy to improve waste management practices and enhance accountability in the sector.
In a statement, KEPRO emphasized the importance of these efforts: “These actions are crucial in transforming Nairobi into a cleaner, more sustainable city. The County’s centralized approach, coupled with the phasing out of unregulated waste collectors, is a significant step toward creating a more organized and accountable waste management system.”
“However, sustainable waste management is a shared responsibility that requires involvement from all stakeholders across the entire value chain. Each part of the system, from manufacturers and businesses to waste handlers and the public, must play its role to ensure that Nairobi achieves its sustainability goals.” Read the statement further.
KEPRO’s call to action reflects the urgent need for greater collaboration and transparency in waste management, both to tackle the challenges of illegal dumping and to promote environmental sustainability in Nairobi.
