Environment and Forestry Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) Mr Mohammed Elmi launched an Eco Toilet program at Ondiri Swamp in Kikuyu Sub-County as a conservation mechanism.
In his remarks during the launch as a pre-activity for the World Wetlands Day, Elmi commended National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) for spearheading the building of the Eco-toilet that aims at minimizing contamination of the water table caused by normal latrines.
“I am happy to handover these environmentally friendly Eco toilets for usage not only to Friends of Ondiri but also to our potential visitors who will definitely be visiting the Swamp after its gazettement as a tourist site,” said CAS.
“Unlike the other normal latrines which tend to contaminated water with human faeces putting people at a high risk of cholera, dysentery, diarrhea, jaundice, typhoid, polio and intestinal worms by releasing harmful waste to the water table, Eco toilet is a self-contained unit that produces good compost and protects the soil and water from any contamination,” Mr David Wakogy the founder and coordinator at FOW explained
“Due to the presence of introduced bacteria inside the toilet which eats up the harmful waste, the Eco toilets has a natural way of controlling its waste hence no need for sewerage system or septic tanks as human waste released to the water table is uncontaminated,” Wakogy added.
There were however other activities that marked the World Wetlands Day at Alliance High School that included award giving to young participants in primary and secondary schools in Kiambu County who participated in art competitions relating to environmental conservation last year, these saw over 20 winning students awarded with trophies
“These competitions are activities created to encourage the young generation to be involved in matters of environmental conservation including wetlands,” Wakogy said.
Numerous community-based organizations were also commended for their efforts in environmental conservation, with Director General NEMA Mamo Mamo, saying that joint efforts from individuals and communities in both state and non-state sectors is crucial in matters environmental conservation.
By Jackline Kidaha and Grace Naishoo
