The Nairobi County Government has announced a crackdown on illegal dumping and obstruction of drainage systems in Eastleigh.
In a statement on Tuesday, September 9, Chief Officer for Environment Geoffrey Mosiria warned that hawkers and landlords contributing to the area’s growing waste management problem will face arrest and prosecution if found culpable.
"I have put on notice all individuals and businesses engaging in illegal dumping within Eastleigh. Hawkers who block and occupy drainage systems will be arrested and prosecuted. Landlords dumping garbage directly onto roads or into neighboring compounds will also face strict legal action," he said.
Mosiria added that the enforcement operation will be conducted under his direct leadership to ensure accountability and effectiveness.
"I will personally lead the exercise to restore order and cleanliness in Eastleigh. I call upon all residents to embrace these changes by maintaining cleanliness in their homes, places of work, and frontages. Together, we can build a cleaner, healthier, and more organized environment for everyone," he added.
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The county’s move comes months after it launched a crackdown targeting tea and coffee hawkers operating within the CBD.
In a statement on Wednesday, June 18, Mosiria cited concerns related to improper waste disposal and the use of banned single-use plastics.
He said the high number of vendors has become a major contributor to litter and blocked drainage systems in the city.
"We have noted with great concern the rapid increase of tea and coffee hawkers in the CBD who are using disposable cups and single-use plastic bags. Most of them do not carry litter bins to manage waste after their customers consume their products.
"As a result, this waste is being dumped all over the CBD and eventually ends up in our drainage systems during rains, contributing to flooding in the city," he said.
According to Mosiria, the operation would see hawkers confined to designated vending zones.
"We have launched an operation targeting these hawkers, who will now be required to operate like any other hawkers, strictly within designated areas (back lanes)," he added.
Additionally, Mosiria noted that the county government was also going after suppliers of the prohibited single-use plastic bags.
"Additionally, we are tracking down those supplying them with single-use plastic bags and will take legal action against them," he warned.
