By Kepher Otieno - Reporter
Kenya, 7 December 2025 - Kisumu County is stepping up its 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, signaling a commitment to inclusive policy-making.
Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o emphasised the urgency of the initiative, saying, “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 an avenue for citizens to shape the way waste is collected, processed, and disposed of, ensuring that the policy and legislation reflect the realities on the ground.
The Draft Policy and Bill aim to promote sustainable practices across the county, including recycling, safe disposal, and the involvement of both communities and private sector partners.
The legislation also seeks 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.
Residents have been encouraged to attend forums, submit written comments, and contribute ideas on how to make the system more effective and inclusive.
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Governor Nyong’o stressed the importance of active citizen engagement, noting, “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 say that Kisumu’s growing population and urbanisation have put increasing pressure on the county’s waste management systems, making reforms both necessary and urgent.
In combining legislation with policy guidance, the county hopes to create a sustainable framework that balances environmental protection with economic opportunities, such as recycling enterprises and waste-to-energy initiatives.
The county government also plans to use the consultations to identify practical challenges that residents face, such as gaps in collection services, inadequate infrastructure, and public awareness.
Insights gathered during this period will inform the final versions of the Policy and Bill, ensuring that they are not only legally robust but also implementable at the community level.
As Kisumu moves toward formalising its waste management strategy, the emphasis on public participation underscores a broader trend in devolved governance: solutions are most effective when citizens are actively involved in shaping them.
With Governor Nyong’o leading the charge and residents engaging directly, Kisumu is positioning itself as a county committed to cleaner streets, healthier communities, and a more sustainable urban environment.
