Mosiria Calls for Revocation of Licenses for Private Waste Firms Conducting Illegal Dumping
Nairobi, Kenya – Nairobi Chief Officer for Citizen Engagement and Customer Service, Geoffrey Mosiria, has called for the revocation of licenses belonging to private waste service providers accused of illegally dumping garbage at sites that had previously been closed by the county government.
Speaking on Sunday, December 8, Mosiria said complaints had emerged after his transition from the environment department, alleging that some waste firms had resumed operations at illegal dumpsites. He further claimed that the companies were deploying hired groups to intimidate and attack county officers attempting to enforce the law.
“We came here to close these sites, but the goons tried to attack the officers and are trying to resist. I know youths are just trying to earn a living, and you should do that by applying for jobs like Climate Works, which will help in cleaning the River Nairobi,” Mosiria said.
“The goons that are trying to resist, we want to tell you that we do not fear you; you will be arrested and taken to court because we are not leaving here until we close this illegal dumping,” he added.
Pollution Concerns
Mosiria revealed that despite repeated notices from the environmental department, the waste providers remained defiant. He personally visited one of the sites to confirm the reports and found that dumping had resumed, leaving the area heavily polluted.
“I personally visited the site to confirm the report, and indeed, the dumping has started again. The area is heavily polluted, and the air quality alone is unsafe for human breathing,” he said.
He pledged to work closely with the Nairobi Environment Department to ensure legal action is taken against the companies involved.
“I will be taking this matter up with the Environment team for immediate action to have the site closed permanently. I will also follow up on the cancellation of licenses for the private waste service providers involved, who are illegally dumping garbage at this site,” Mosiria stated.
Alternative Solutions
The Chief Officer emphasized that the county government is willing to provide structured alternatives for waste firms if they comply with regulations. He pointed to the proposed construction of a Material Recovery Facility (MRF) as a sustainable solution.
“While in office, we had proposed a proper solution to help these groups establish a well-organized Material Recovery Facility, where they can earn decently without polluting the environment. That offer for structured support and full compliance still stands,” Mosiria explained.
Crackdown on Unsafe Practices
Mosiria also raised alarm over another emerging health risk: the resale of used carrier bags washed with sewage water. He said such practices endangered Nairobi residents, particularly in major markets such as Gikomba.
“Today, I encountered something that left me deeply shaken. I found a man washing used carrier bags right next to the Nairobi River using filthy sewer water. When I approached him, he calmly told me that he had orders from Gikomba and that he is paid just KSh200 for the job,” Mosiria recounted.
He urged manufacturers of carrier bags to establish safe collection, recycling, and disposal systems to prevent the circulation of contaminated products.
Conclusion
Mosiria’s remarks highlight growing concerns over illegal dumping and unsafe recycling practices in Nairobi. His call for license revocations and stricter enforcement underscores the county’s determination to protect public health and the environment.
As the festive season approaches, the county government faces mounting pressure to balance enforcement with sustainable waste management solutions, ensuring that Nairobi residents are safeguarded from pollution and hazardous practices.
ALSO READ: Governor Nyaribo Impeachment: Nyamira MCAs Vow to Challenge Senate Decision in Court
Mosiria Calls for Revocation of Licenses for Private Waste Firms Conducting Illegal Dumping
