The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) in Narok County has raised concerns over the re-emergence of plastic bags in the county.
Speaking to KNA in his office, the County Director of Environment Fanuel Mosago lamented that the bags are sneaked into the country through the porous Tanzania border to the country where they find their way into the retail shops.
Mosago warned of stiff punishment to those found in possession of the banned bags reiterating that his office will not relent in the war to enforce the law.
“We have a major challenge in trading centers at the border of the country as the traders there easily get the bags from our neighbours. We are watching and will enforce the law,” he reiterated.
In the last one year, he said, his office has worked with the police to carry out crackdowns on people using the banned bags at Naroosura, Ngoswani, Ololulunga and Kilgoris areas where tens of people were arrested and arraigned in court.
The officer acknowledged the help they receive from the security team through the County Commissioner’s office to carry out enforcement measures in the villages.
He added that his office will continue collaborating with officials from the county government to ensure there is proper waste management in Narok town and its environs.
“There is a challenge of disposal of plastic bottles and especially beer bottles. We urge the county government of Narok to take the responsibility seriously,” said the Environment officer.
A spot check at Olposimoru trading center that borders Narok County and Tanzania country showed that the environment has been polluted by the plastic bags.
The government through a gazette notice in 2017 banned the use, manufacture of flat plastic bags and carrier bags in the country.
By Ann Salaton and Candy Gudda
