- Maintaining the cleanliness of our environment is of utmost importance for the welfare of our planet and the generations to come.
- Undeniably, the improper disposal of waste leads to environmental pollution, which can have devastating effects on habitats, ecosystems, air quality, water sources, and soil.
- Various renowned government officials participated in the event and ensured that every process and activity was done appropriately.
Kakamega County Clean-up Day, a new initiative, was implemented on Friday, January 19, 2024, at the county CBD.
The auspicious event witnessed a multitude of the residents of Kakamega, together with the students of Masinde Muliro University, gathered up for litter/garbage collection, sweeping, and waste disposal.
The county government of Kakamega implemented the initiative, which was effectively executed through partnerships with diverse institutions, both public and private entities, and active involvement from the general public.
Kakamega County Environmental Management Act, 2019 (No. 2 of 2019)
Sourced from the Kenya Gazette Supplement No. 4 (Kakamega County Acts No. 2), text dated 21 December 2018.
The act was enacted for the purpose of providing regulation and control of air pollution, water pollution and public nuisances, waste management and land pollution.
The Act charges the environmental department and waste generators with the duty to ensure effective management of solid waste through collection, storage, transportation, recycling and disposal of wastes in an environmentally sound manner.
Keeping our environment clean
Maintaining the cleanliness of our environment is of utmost importance for the welfare of our planet and the generations to come.
It is not solely the obligation of a select few, but rather a shared responsibility that every individual should wholeheartedly accept.
Even the simplest acts like sweeping or picking up litter can significantly contribute to the betterment of our global community.
The act of littering presents a substantial issue with global repercussions, affecting communities on a widespread scale.
Besides its lack of aesthetic appeal, this practice can have profound and adverse effects on both the environment and the overall welfare of the public.
It facilitates an optimal breeding ground for bacteria to flourish, thereby increasing the potential for disease transmission through direct and indirect human interactions.
Illegal dumping is a widespread issue across various regions of the nation, and its consequences on the environment are significant.
It leads to the pollution of our water sources, including groundwater, streams, rivers, and ponds.
Additionally, open burning practices damage soil quality and harm air quality.
The overall impact on the environment is highly detrimental.
The hazards associated with improper waste disposal range from obstructed waterways and waterborne infections to floating garbage and unpleasant odors.
Every household generates garbage or waste, which should not be disposed of in a careless manner. It is concerning to witness some residents recklessly discarding their waste.
The key to creating an attractive country for its citizenry and investors lies in showcasing a pristine and enjoyable atmosphere that facilitates seamless business operations.
What adds to its allure is the country’s capacity to foster unity, inclusion, welfare, and safety among its residents, who become its foremost advocates.
The local government plays a crucial role in waste management, as it is responsible for ensuring sustainability in this area.
Hazards of improper waste disposal
Improper waste management has clear implications for the environment.
Undeniably, the improper disposal of waste leads to environmental pollution, which can have devastating effects on habitats, ecosystems, air quality, water sources, and soil.
These effects can be both long-lasting and immediate.
The most evident and urgent outcome of mishandling waste is the irreversible harm caused to the environment, which will continue to affect humans for an extended period.
Waste recycling and its significance
Recycling involves collecting and processing materials that would otherwise be discarded as waste, transforming them into fresh products.
This practice brings advantages to the community, the economy, and the environment.
By recycling, we contribute to a healthier nation for both present and future generations, thereby reaping numerous benefits for our surroundings.
- Conservation of natural resources
Recycling reduces the need to extract resources such as timber, water, and minerals for new products.
- Waste and pollution reduction
Recycling diverts waste away from landfills and incinerators, which reduces the harmful effects of pollution and emissions.
- Conservation of natural resources
Some of the country’s natural resources are in short supply, and when we recycle, we help conserve these natural resources. When we recycle paper, we save forests and trees.
Recycling metals reduces the need to extract new metal ore, while recycling glass reduces the need for certain raw materials like sand.
- Saving energy
Making products from recycled materials requires less energy than making them from new raw materials. Energy reduction is maximized when recycled materials are used to generate new products.
- Reduction of carbon emissions
Recycling takes up less energy, which reduces our carbon footprint and emissions. This helps minimize methane-release waste from landfill sites, which contributes to climate change.
The big day
During the event, the residents of Kakamega County turned up in large numbers with great energy and enthusiasm, ready to clean up the town alongside the government officials.
All participants gathered at Kakamega Social Hall for reflectors, T-shirts, caps, and protective gear necessary for the task.
Afya Bora, Mazingira Bora Jukumu Langu was the event’s theme.
All the individuals were then briefed about the event by Justin Mutobera, Chief Officer of Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, and afterward commissioned to start the cleaning at various places in town.
Masinde Muliro University students from various Clubs and Associations were not left behind.
Their immense urge and passion for environmental conservation compelled them also to be part and parcel of the memorable event.
They also plugged in to showcase the significance of involvement in such practices that are focused on environmental conservation.
Deputy Governor Ayub Savula joined the multitude of the residents at Muliro Gardens.
He proceeded with them to Masingo Market, where he, together with various government officials and civil service members, gave speeches to the public regarding sanitation and environmental conservation.
Speeches
Speech from Governor Fernandes Barasa, read by Savula, his deputy:
“I’m glad to join the residents of this county and, in particular, this town, to launch an initiative that will give us a distinctive honor.
Our county is a green jewel, and today, we’ve gathered up to launch a community-led clean-up exercise that aims at raising environmental awareness.”
He added that his office is working with the county assembly to prioritize enacting sustainable waste management legislation that will help create an environment for waste management to ensure material recovery and recycling.
He urged everybody to be environmentally sensitive, adding that the county’s cleanliness will help Kakamega County be chosen for future national and international events as well as being the destination of choice for tourists.
Justin Mutobera, Chief Officer of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change, noted, “We also intend to educate the public on waste management, recycling and production of organic fertilizers.
The Law of Kenya requires the county government to uphold clean and safe environment.”
Various renowned government officials participated in the event and ensured that every process and activity was done appropriately.
They themselves joined all those who were cleaning the town and helped out where necessary.
They include Peninah Mukabane, Minister for Water and Environment, Dr. Godfrey Owuor, Minster Public Service and Administration, Chief Officer Barack Otieno, Resource Mobilization Partnerships and Donor Relations, among others.
The various partners who took part in ensuring a smooth running of the event include:
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Invest and Grow (IG) SACCO, Practical Action, Lake Victoria North Water Works Development Agency, Kenya Chamber of Commerce, Red Cross, DEMA, Youth for Green Action and St. John Ambulance from Masinde Muliro University, USAID Western Kenya Water Project, Western Cross, Catholic Justice and Peace Development, Kakamega Environment Uplift Network, County Women Empowerment Program, Kakamega Municipality and Market Traders.
