Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti has condemned neighboring metropolitan counties for dumping solid waste into Machakos, causing environmental, water, and air pollution.
She noted that despite her government’s investment in modern equipment and hiring of additional cleaners, the waste crisis persists. The Governor also criticized private solid waste service providers for frequently disposing of waste in undesignated areas within the county, urging them to use authorized collection points.
Speaking to the media at her office after a cabinet meeting, Governor Wavinya directed the Department of Urban Housing to implement new waste management strategies, including waste segregation at the source. She also instructed the inspectorate team to address the growing menace by apprehending offenders.
“It is unacceptable that other metropolitan counties are turning Machakos into a dumping ground. Service providers must dispose of waste responsibly and use designated collection points. Our Inspectorate team will enforce the Environment Act and apprehend those who flout the law,” she warned.
Governor Wavinya expressed disappointment with the County Assembly, which had earlier deferred critical bills such as the Annual Development Plan (ADP) and the Wikwatyo Fund, both essential for driving development and economic empowerment.
She emphasized that the ADP, drawn from community input, guides the County budget for the entire financial year, while the Wikwatyo Fund is intended to uplift women and youth. The Governor urged the Assembly to act responsibly, making timely decisions to ensure public resources are used effectively.
She called out the County Assembly Speaker for stalling key development agendas and gazetted Assembly business without lawful justification, highlighting that such actions derail the county budget cycle amid the solid waste management crisis.
“These are not just documents; they are the backbone of our planning and a lifeline to the dreams of our women and youth. Repeated delays in approving key Bills by the County Assembly are a concern,” decried the Governor.
Deputy Speaker Stephen Mwanthi supported the Governor’s remarks, noting that the Speaker had gazetted four items for discussion but deferred two without seeking a house resolution, contrary to standing orders.
“We don’t know the reason because you cannot defer business arbitrarily. This is interfering with our budget-making process, and I am not sure we will meet the legal deadlines,” said Deputy Speaker Mwanthi.
by Anne Kangero & Mary Wavinya
