The Department of Environment, Water, Energy, Natural Resources and Climate Change has concluded a series of stakeholder engagement meetings aimed at strengthening waste management responsibility and promoting circular economy practices across Vihiga County.
The forums, held at Praise Centre in Mbale Town, brought together key players in the waste management sector, including county technical officers led by Chief Officer Dr Richard Boiyo, landlords, business community representatives, educational institutions, private waste service providers, and officials from the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI).
The meetings focused on enhancing shared responsibility in waste management, promoting proper waste segregation and disposal, improving compliance with environmental regulations, and encouraging circular economy practices such as reuse, recycling, composting, and resource recovery.
Speaking during the engagements, Dr Boiyo expressed concern over the rising cases of illegal waste dumping from private premises, particularly during weekends, with rivers and open spaces being the most affected areas.
He noted that the County Government has already licensed Private Waste Service Providers (PWSPs) and waived licensing fees to encourage greater participation and improve service delivery.
The Chief Officer urged waste generators to enter into formal agreements with licensed waste collectors to ensure proper handling and disposal of waste.
Dr Boiyo also called on all stakeholders to support the county’s efforts to improve environmental management and maintain a clean and healthy environment.
Participants were encouraged to spearhead community awareness campaigns on waste reduction at source, proper sorting of household waste, and the environmental and public health risks associated with poor waste disposal practices.
The stakeholders further identified schools and local institutions as critical platforms for instilling environmental responsibility among young people and promoting sustainable waste management practices.
At the close of the meetings, participants reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with the County Government in advancing a cleaner, healthier, and environmentally sustainable Vihiga County through enhanced waste management and circular economy initiatives.
By Crispinus Ivan
