Chuka: Every morning before sunrise, the streets of Vihiga County begin to stir. Traders prepare to open their businesses, households sweep their compounds, and markets gradually fill with buyers and sellers. Along with the activities comes another inevitable reality, waste. Plastic bottles, food leftovers, paper, polythene bags, and other refuse accumulate daily, posing a growing challenge to the county’s capacity to sustain a cleaner environment.
According to Kenya News Agency, while many residents see waste as something to discard, a growing number of environmental experts, entrepreneurs, and waste collectors are changing this perception. They are proving that what is thrown away today can become tomorrow’s economic opportunity. Vihiga County is steadily embracing modern waste management practices that aim not only to keep the environment clean but also to create employment, improve public health, and contribute to sustainable development.
Aquila Lwanga, Vihiga County Environmental Director, highlighted in an interview that effective waste management is no longer optional but an urgent necessity. She explained that the county has experienced increased urbanization, population growth, and commercial activities, all of which have led to a rise in the volume of waste generated daily. Lwanga noted that the county government has strengthened environmental policies and is working closely with stakeholders to improve waste collection, disposal, and environmental conservation.
The County Environmental Planning Officer, Philip Angose, echoed Lwanga’s sentiments, emphasizing that planning is critical in ensuring sustainable waste management systems. Proper planning enables the county to identify suitable waste disposal sites while minimizing environmental risks. Angose explained that integrating waste management into county development plans supports economic development, tourism, agriculture, and public health.
Jonanga Livingston, Vihiga County Waste Management Officer, discussed the practical aspects of waste management, highlighting the challenge of waste segregation. He urged residents to separate biodegradable waste from recyclable materials before disposal and reminded them that waste management is an individual responsibility. Jonanga stressed the importance of reducing littering in markets, schools, and public places to prevent environmental pollution.
Entrepreneur Justin Kapanga emphasized the business opportunities in waste management, advocating for a circular economy where materials remain in use for as long as possible. Recycling plastic waste into useful products creates employment while reducing environmental pollution. Kapanga noted that increased investment in recycling technologies and public education could significantly reduce the amount of waste reaching dumpsites.
Waste collectors like Collins Idago play a crucial role in daily waste management operations. Despite facing challenges such as inadequate protective equipment and occasional payment delays, Idago remains committed to keeping communities clean. He believes waste collectors deserve greater recognition for their contribution to public health and environmental conservation.
John Amalanda, a resident involved in environmental conservation, underscored the importance of behavioral change in tackling the waste problem. He encouraged communities to organize regular clean-up exercises and educate children about environmental conservation from an early age.
Fred Nambisia, National Environment Management Authority Director for Vihiga County, emphasized that properly managed waste reduces disease outbreaks and improves living conditions. He noted that the waste management sector continues to create employment opportunities, especially for young people, in various areas such as waste collection, recycling plants, and environmental consultancy.
Nambisia identified challenges hindering progress, including limited recycling infrastructure, inadequate funding, and low public awareness. He recommended stronger enforcement of environmental regulations, increased investment, and continuous public education to overcome these obstacles.
The journey toward cleaner towns and healthier communities in Vihiga County is already underway. The commitment demonstrated by environmental officers, entrepreneurs, waste collectors, and community members offers hope that waste can become part of the solution rather than part of the problem. In Vihiga County, waste is gradually being redefined not as something to throw away, but as an opportunity to build a healthier, greener, and more prosperous society.
