Mitigating Challenges to Kenya’s Chemicals and Waste Management

Abstract

This Special Focus highlights the challenges undermining Kenya’s efforts towards effective chemical and waste management. They include budgetary constraints, public awareness, regulatory deficiencies, and cross-border corporation. Notwithstanding initiatives such as the National Waste Management Strategy 2015-2030, the country faces challenges attributed to substantial waste generation, particularly in Nairobi, with low recycling rates exacerbating environmental degradation. In addition, insufficient public awareness often leads to improper disposal practices, especially for hazardous waste. Key recommendations include enhancing enforcement of existing relevant laws, increasing financial resources, conducting comprehensive public awareness campaigns, and strengthening cooperation with neighbouring Eastern Africa countries to control illegal waste movement across borders.