The County Government of Uasin Gishu, Department Of Environment, in Collaboration with Kenya Climate Innovation Center KCIC, is currently hosting a public participation exercise at County Hall.
The initiative aims to gather feedback on the draft waste management policy, bill, and regulations.
The event attracted diverse participants, including private waste collectors and recyclers, community-based organizations, residents, and members of the business community
Speaking while opening the Exercise on Monday, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Environment Dr. Sam Kottut emphasized the importance of community input in shaping the final document to be presented to the cabinet.




CECM Kottut highlighted that public views are crucial for ensuring that the waste management policy is comprehensive and addresses the community’s needs.
“Your input is essential in this document, and we are committed to incorporating your suggestions into the final draft,” he stated.
“We want our dump site only to hold what cannot be reused, as waste can be transformed into valuable resources and income.” His comments reflect a vision for a more sustainable approach to waste management that recognizes the economic benefits of recycling and proper waste disposal.
In addressing safety concerns, CECM Kottut assured residents that significant measures have been included in the draft regulations to protect them from potential harm due to industrial activities in the county.
“We have put up regulations to safeguard our residents, especially in terms of waste generated by industries,” he explained.
He also noted that specific protective measures, such as considerations for sewage and septic systems, are aimed at safeguarding families, particularly those living in informal settlements. “These measures are critical for ensuring the health and safety of our community members, particularly in slum areas,” he added.




Kottut mentioned that part of the policy will establish a training framework for private waste collectors and handlers, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage waste.
Project coordinator Diffina Salim further elaborated on the importance of public engagement in this initiative.
“The success of this policy relies on the participation of our residents. We need to understand their challenges and insights to create a workable and effective waste management framework,” she stated.