Busia: Residents of Busia have been urged to adopt responsible practices for disposing of used plastics to promote environmental conservation. During the World Environment Day event at the Busia Vocational Training Centre, County Director of the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Cliff Barkatch, emphasized the collective effort required to tackle plastic pollution.
According to Kenya News Agency, Barkatch highlighted the pervasive impact of plastic waste, noting that it contaminates the water, food, and air, ultimately entering human bodies. He stressed that addressing plastic pollution is a shared responsibility that involves government institutions and community efforts. Barkatch also warned that individuals caught using banned plastic bags will face legal consequences, as his team continues impromptu crackdowns on illegal usage.
Barkatch reported that five individuals were recently apprehended for possessing plastic bags in Bumala and are now facing legal action in Busia law court. He identified the porous borders as a challenge, facilitating the influx of banned bags from Uganda. He advocated for alternative packaging options such as cotton bags, sisal bags, and bamboo baskets.
Busia County Director of Water and Environment, Kelly Wafula, called for unified efforts to control plastic pollution. Wafula emphasized the significance of personal commitment to reducing plastic use and recommended reusing, recycling, or incinerating plastics for responsible disposal. He highlighted the problems caused by plastics clogging drainage systems, which lead to flooding and harm aquatic life.
Wafula urged stakeholders to engage the business community in avoiding banned plastic bags and ensuring proper disposal. He emphasized the responsibility of current generations to protect the environment.
Zeka Wekesa, the County National Authority for Campaign Against Drug Abuse (NACADA) Coordinator, stressed the environmental risks posed by discarded plastic bottles and bags associated with drug abuse. Wekesa advocated for environmental conservation alongside drug abuse prevention for a healthier nation.
Patrick Ikwara, Busia County Linda Mazingira Coordinator, called for the effective implementation of existing policies. He urged dialogue between the business community and government to address plastic bag pollution, emphasizing that despite the ban, the issue persists.
The World Environment Day celebration, themed ‘Ending Plastic Pollution,’ featured market cleaning activities in Busia town, involving students, stakeholders, and the public.
