The Environment Watchdog the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has reminded Kenyans that the ban on plastic bags is still in force.
This follows laxity on the part of some Kenyans who have been using the banned single use plastic bags.
A message from NEMA confirms that the officers are still enforcing the ban and anyone found in possession of them will be prosecuted.
“18 people were arrested yesterday in Wakulima Market and Roysambu in Nairobi County after they were found in possession of banned plastic bags. This was during the ongoing joint crackdown. The offenders were arraigned at Nairobi City Court and were fined Kshs. 50,000 each for knowingly and unlawfully using banned plastic carrier bags.”
Plastic pollution is among one of the biggest threats facing humanity today. While Kenya’s government has generally shown commitment towards a plastic free future, there has been laxity when it comes to implementation of the same. Cooperation across the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) agents in different counties is critical in ensuring that all loopholes are sealed.