This archive report was first published on 31 October 2019.
On October 31, 2019, the National Environmental Management Authority (Nema) ordered the closure of a plastic waste collection firm in Nakuru town's industrial area, citing environmental concerns.
The decision was met with resistance from the county government, which argued that the closure would undermine efforts to collect and recycle waste in the town.
According to Muriithi Kiogora, the County Chief Officer for Environment, the closure of the company would defeat the purpose of waste management efforts, as residents would be left to litter the area.
“When people encroach on the industrial area, then they petition Nema to close down companies because of pollution, it beats the logic of fighting pollution," Kiogora said.
The county government also pointed out that the annual license fee of Sh43,000 imposed by Nema was punitive and would make it difficult for waste collection firms to operate.
“The county assembly agreed that startups operating in waste collection will only be charged Sh2,000 annually as an incentive as we try to reduce waste. Nema's Sh43,000 annual levy is punitive," Kiogora added.
Nema, however, maintained that the company was at fault for failing to conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and apply for a license.
“The license charges are spelt out in the law, and every business operator should comply," said Fred Kinambise, the Acting Director of Nema's Nakuru office.
