The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has warned that it will arrest Kenyans found carrying banned plastic bags.
The environmental watchdog said it has now embarked on strict enforcement of the ban, two weeks after the Ministry of Environment banned the use, manufacture and importation of plastic bags.
In a statement, NEMA corporate communications manager Evans them said that the grace period given to those in possession of plastic bags to get rid of them had elapsed and warned that anyone found with them will face the law.
Nyabuto said that Nema is still carrying out public awareness campaigns in readiness for the full implementation of the plastic bags ban.
“We had earlier given Kenyans and businesses a grace period to comply with the ban that took effect last month as we set on checking for non-compliance and advising those who had not complied to do so but now the window is now closed,” he said.
Nyabuto further said they are collaborating with county government executives in charge of environment to ensure that the ban is fully implemented in each of the 47 counties.
“Our enforcement team is currently in Mombasa County where we are meeting county directors and county executive in charge of environment on the level of compliance in the county. We have gone round to certain stores to check for their levels of compliance,” Mr Nyabuto said.
Nema is also working with the Red Cross, National Youth Service, recyclers and other small supermarkets to set up drop off points to ensure Kenyans who still have polythene bags to dispose them.
Last month, Nema engaged three largest supermarkets in Kenya, Tuskys, Uchumi and Nakumatt, to act as drop-off points following the effect of countrywide ban on non-biodegradable plastic bags.
The government and NEMA…
The government and NEMA should embark on a recycle program instead of Banning plastic products all together. Imagine what a boost that would be interms of Job creation. Some decisions are very retarded.
@D Mwose, they did not ban…
@D Mwose, they did not ban all plastic products. They banned plastic bags (shopping bags). You cannot do without plastic products
Instead of arresting, just…
Instead of arresting, just confiscate the plastic bag. Set aside places to dispose these bags as they do in ” democratic countries.
Arrest for a plastic bag?…
Arrest for a plastic bag? Just give a ticket for violation. One, you are opening doors to clog the jails and courts or two, you are opening doors for bribing enforcers or the police.