Nairobi, 3rd May 2025
Nairobi City County has embarked on a journey that will see the County transition from the traditional linear model of waste management to a more sustainable circular model; an initiative that will not only promote environmental sustainability and create green jobs but also address the City’s growing waste management challenges.
The County in partnership with Kenya Climate Innovation Center (KCIC) held an inception meeting bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders that comprehensively assessed the state of circularity in Nairobi, as the County with support from KCIC plans to carry out a data driven study that will help achieve sustainable waste management solutions. The meeting looked at the current circular economy practices, key actors and systems influencing circularity, infrastructure and policy gaps. They also provided recommendations necessary for accelerating circular transition.
“This inclusive dialogue will ensure that the process is not only enriched but also owned by those directly involved. The initiative will be spearheaded by Nairobi City County in partnership with KCIC.” Said Mr. Geoffrey Mosiria, the County Chief Officer for Environment.
Mr. Mosiria assured that the County remains committed to the sustainable management of waste, urging all the stakeholders to work together guided by data and collaborations to build a circular future for Nairobi.
The County Director for Environment Mr. John Paul Malawi said that the report will guide on updating policies and other regulatory frameworks and also planning and budgetary allocations. He called for accurate information and data collection during the study.
” There is an urgent need to establish a baseline for Nairobi’s circularity, identify challenges and opportunities as well as provide strategic direction through evidence based recommendations as we strive to shift towards a circular economy that is focused on reducing waste through reuse, recycle and resource efficiency.” He added.
Mr. Malawi also assured the waste entrepreneurs that one of the desired objective of the study is to improve on the business environment, noting that the County government of Nairobi has a responsibility to provide an enabling environment for the business community, while ensuring that there is compliance in all Environmental laws and regulations.
The Manager Corporate Services-Kenya Climate Innovation Centre Mr. Ernest Chitech cited key issues that need to be addressed while striving for sustainable waste management solutions such as creation of public awareness on best practices, use of right tools in tackling waste, type of infrastructure and addressing infrastructure gaps particularly in informal settlements.
A technical working group comprising of key waste management players and stakeholders was formed to give guidance during the entire study process.
The meeting was attended by County Environment officers, various stakeholders including NEMA, Royal Danish Embassy, UN HABITAT, VSO, Practical Action, Mazingira Magazine, Kenya Recyclers Association, private sector players, partners in the waste management space including grass root organizations and community champions comprising of waste pickers.
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