Solid Waste Management poses serious threat to ecosystem in Elgeyo Marakwet County

Kapsowar, Tuesday, June 6, 2023

KNA by Rennish Okong'o

Solid Waste Management in Elgeyo Marakwet County, has become a pressing concern, posing a severe threat to the local ecosystem.

During the commemoration of the World Environment Day, held at Moi Girls Kapsowar, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) Director, Stephen Kilonzo Kituma, highlighted the alarming daily waste production in the County, estimated at approximately 16 tonnes, primarily originating from the major towns of Iten, Kapsowar, and Kapcherop.

Director Kituma emphasized that the event was held in Kapsowar town to raise awareness about proper waste management practices and the detrimental effects of plastic on the environment.

As part of their efforts to combat climate change, 2,300 trees were planted at Moi Girls High School Kapsowar, which the school has committed to nurturing, emphasizing the importance of collective action and a multidisciplinary approach to achieve environmental regeneration.

Elgeyo Marakwet County, Deputy Governor, Prof. Grace Cheserek, expressed concern over the escalating volume of solid waste and its impact on community health. She revealed that the disposal of 15 tonnes of solid waste daily poses significant environmental hazards.

Despite the alarming statistics, little has been done to address the issue of solid waste mismanagement effectively. Prof. Cheserek called for urgent intervention, particularly in improving plastic waste management to protect both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.   

Prof. Cheserek encouraged residents to harness their innovation and devise measures to combat plastic pollution, while also exploring opportunities to generate income.

She urged the community to reduce, reuse, and recycle plastic materials, emphasizing the transformative power of small changes in daily life.

Prof. Cheserek emphasized that waste should be viewed as a resource, and its optimal utilization can bring about substantial positive change.

Water, Environment, and County Executive (CECM), Climate Change, Jason Lagat, echoed the urgent need for action in the area of solid waste management.

He revealed that the Department is actively working on frameworks to guide potential partners on investment opportunities aimed at reducing waste disposal and promoting waste reuse.

By engaging stakeholders and identifying appropriate fields for investment, the County aims to establish a sustainable approach to waste management in the long run.

Elgeyo Marakwet County has already demonstrated its commitment to environmental conservation by planting over 800,000 trees. This ambitious effort is part of a larger goal to plant 60 million trees within the next five years. By prioritizing reforestation and sustainable waste management practices, the County seeks to mitigate the adverse effects of solid waste on the fragile ecosystem.

The alarming solid waste management situation in Elgeyo Marakwet County, calls for immediate action from both authorities and residents.

A collective effort is necessary to implement effective waste management strategies, reduce plastic pollution, and safeguard the environment for future generations.

Through awareness, innovation, and collaboration, Elgeyo Marakwet County can pave the way for sustainable development and set an example for others to follow in the journey toward a greener and cleaner future.

Courtesy K. N. A