Plastic bags in Tana River County continue to be a menace despite the government’s ban five years ago, raising environmental concerns.
A spot check by KNA in Hola town revealed that a number of small-scale traders still use plastic paper bags.
This is despite the government banning the use of plastic paper bags five years ago, owing to their environmental and health concerns.
Mr. Salim Ahmed Bashir, the Director of National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) in Tana River, says plastic waste is a major concern and issued a stern warning to those found using them.
Speaking at his Hola office, he said that strict action will be taken for those caught violating the order.
“According to Kenyan Law, anyone caught selling or using plastic bags faces a fine ranging from Sh2 million to Sh4 million or imprisonment,” said Bashir.
He said that residents have had enough time to comply with the law, warning that security agents are on the look-out and will arrest violators.
Bashir urged small-scale traders to stop buying and distributing plastic bags, warning that they will face the law.
By Michael Maina and Simon Guruba
