Kisumu County moves to strengthen waste management with new bill

KENYA – Kisumu County is advancing efforts to tackle environmental challenges with the introduction of the Draft Sustainable Waste Management Policy and the accompanying Sustainable Waste Management Bill.

The county government has invited residents, stakeholders, and organizations to participate in public consultations, emphasizing an inclusive approach to policy-making.

Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o highlighted the urgency of the initiative, stating, “Proper waste management is not just a policy issue, it is a responsibility we all share.

“Our goal is to create a cleaner, healthier Kisumu for every resident, and that requires input from the community.”

The public participation process provides a platform for citizens to shape how waste is collected, processed, and disposed of, ensuring that the policy and legislation address local realities.

The Draft Policy and Bill aim to promote sustainable practices, including recycling, safe disposal, and collaboration with private sector partners.

They also seek to establish clear guidelines for accountability, monitoring, and enforcement of waste management standards.

According to the county government, these measures are critical for reducing pollution, improving public health, and protecting Kisumu’s lakes and waterways, which have been under pressure from rapid urbanization.

Residents are encouraged to attend forums, submit written comments, and provide ideas for making the system more effective and inclusive.

Governor Nyong’o stressed that “No government can manage waste alone. We need every resident, every business, and every community group to participate. This is about safeguarding our environment and the future of our children.”

Experts note that Kisumu’s growing population and expanding urban areas have put increasing strain on existing waste management systems, making reforms urgent.

By combining legislation with practical policy guidance, the county aims to create a framework that balances environmental protection with economic opportunities, such as recycling enterprises and waste-to-energy initiatives.

The consultations will also help identify practical challenges, including gaps in collection services, inadequate infrastructure, and low public awareness.

Insights gathered will inform the final versions of the Policy and Bill, ensuring they are both legally robust and implementable at the community level.

Recently, the county signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Africa Bioenergy Programs Limited (ABPL), representing the European Union–funded KijaniBox Consortium.

The agreement paves the way for a pioneering MarketBox waste-to-energy demonstration project designed to convert organic market waste into clean energy for cooling and productive use across key urban markets.

The deal, signed by CECM for Water, Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources Judith Oluoch and witnessed by senior county officials, commits Kisumu to supporting the deployment of the EU-funded facility at no cost to the local government.

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