The County Governments of Meru, Embu, and Tharaka Nithi have today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will enable them to develop a joint approach to waste management, including the establishment of a plant that will convert waste into a source of revenue.
Speaking at Kathwana Headquarters, where the signing took place, host Governor Muthomi Njuki said the three counties had agreed to collaborate in finding common solutions to shared challenges in waste management.
“We are stronger together than as individuals. Our counties release about 1,350 tonnes of waste daily, and 57 percent of that is organic. We must rethink how to turn this waste into useful products that benefit our people,” said Njuki.
He said the partnership would not only improve environmental management but also create employment opportunities, especially for the youth, through the collection, processing, and production of organic fertiliser from waste.
“We import a lot of fertiliser as a country, yet most of our waste is organic. By turning waste into agricultural inputs, we will promote food security, create jobs, and enhance useful production,” he added.
The MoU establishes a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) that will allow the counties to engage an international investor, the Jospong Group from Ghana, which has a proven track record in modern waste management.
The SPV will coordinate implementation and attract more partners to scale up the initiative across the region.
Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire hailed the collaboration, saying it reflected a shared commitment by the three county governments to think beyond boundaries and find regional solutions.
“We have come together with a common development agenda. The issue of waste management is not simple, but by working together, we can turn challenges into opportunities and ensure every county wins,” said Mbarire.
Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma said the partnership marks the beginning of a long-term regional transformation agenda that aligns with the national Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
“We have begun a journey toward sustainable waste management. We will move with speed to engage residents through public participation to ensure inclusivity, job creation, and a cleaner environment,” said Mr Mutuma.
The three governors reiterated their commitment to promoting collaboration, innovation, and environmental sustainability, noting that regional cooperation would give them a stronger bargaining power for resources.
By Dickson Mwiti and Christine Ngitori
