Wajir town launches bold drive to tackle plastic pollution

KENYA – Wajir town has launched an ambitious environmental campaign to address the growing menace of plastic pollution that has clogged drainage systems, scarred its streets, and threatened the health of both people and livestock.

The eight-day initiative, dubbed “Wajir Bila Plastic” (Wajir Without Plastic), is spearheaded by Islamic Relief Kenya in partnership with the Wajir County Government.

It brings together youth groups, community leaders, and local stakeholders in a collective effort to clear plastic and other non-biodegradable waste from markets and residential areas.

Speaking at the launch, Nimaa Adan, Islamic Relief Kenya’s Wajir field officer, said the campaign is about more than just beautifying the town.

“The objective of the campaign is to improve hygiene and curb plastic pollution, which poses serious health and environmental risks,” she noted.

Residents expressed optimism about the initiative. Mohamed Abdullahi, a local herder, noted that plastic waste has harmed livestock, a crucial source of livelihood for the pastoralist community.

“This clean-up exercise is about safeguarding livelihoods. Many animals have died after consuming plastic waste,” he said. Another resident, Hassan Abdi, emphasized the need for consistency, suggesting that cleanup drives be held monthly to maintain their impact.

Municipality manager Omar Shano highlighted that the campaign builds on broader efforts to improve Wajir’s image and promote civic responsibility.

“Cleanliness is not just the county government’s responsibility. We are all stakeholders,” he said, urging citizens, businesses, and organizations to take greater ownership of public hygiene.

The drive also connects to Islamic Relief Kenya’s broader program, “Enhancing Plastic Waste Management and Youth Employment in Wajir.”

 In August, the organization donated KES2 million to youth groups to establish garbage collection points and launch plastic waste management ventures.

The project aims to tackle pollution while creating jobs for young people, offering them sustainable livelihoods and steering them away from drug abuse and human trafficking risks.

Wajir’s campaign mirrors growing efforts across Kenya to combat plastic waste. The country has been lauded globally for its 2017 ban on single-use plastic carrier bags, one of the strictest in the world.

However, rural towns like Wajir still grapple with weak waste management infrastructure and limited enforcement, leaving communities vulnerable to pollution.

For residents, the Wajir Bila Plastic campaign signifies a renewed commitment to cleaner streets, healthier livestock, and a stronger sense of shared responsibility for the town’s future.

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