Gatundu: Gatundu Water and Sanitation Company (GATWASCO) has partnered with the Kiambu County Department of Water, Environment, Energy and Natural Resources to undertake a comprehensive cleanup exercise at Kiganjo Market, reaffirming their joint commitment to promoting hygiene and environmental conservation in the region. The initiative brought together GATWASCO staff, county officials, and local traders in a unified effort to transform the market into a cleaner and healthier trading facility for all users.
According to Kenya News Agency, the exercise focused on removing accumulated garbage, clearing drainage tunnels, and organizing solid waste disposal systems within the premises. Participants received training on proper sanitation practices and waste management techniques to ensure long-term environmental sustainability. David Muigai, Administrator at GATWASCO, said the sensitization program emphasized the importance of proper waste disposal.
Traders were encouraged to have designated bins for solid waste, which the county government collects and disposes of properly. For liquid waste, they were educated on safe disposal methods, including diversion to soak pits. Muigai added that the exercise also highlighted the need for proper compound drainage systems connected to county infrastructure, ensuring effective management of wastewater and rainwater within the market.
The collaboration extends beyond Kiganjo, with systems now in place to coordinate similar cleanups across markets in Gatundu North and Gatundu South constituencies. This demonstrates the broad, grassroots nature of the initiative. Public sensitization covered water conservation techniques and guidance on accessing and maintaining clean water sources, helping address broader challenges of water and sanitation in the region.
Local traders embraced the exercise, working side by side with officials and water company staff. 'This cleanup has made our market more presentable and hygienic for customers. We appreciate the education on proper waste management and commit to maintaining these standards so our trading environment remains clean,' said Peter Kamau, a vegetable trader at Kiganjo Market.
According to organizers, the partnership between GATWASCO and the county's Department of Water, Environment, Energy and Natural Resources reflects a coordinated approach to tackling environmental challenges. By combining cleanup activities with sensitization, the initiative seeks not only to improve current conditions but also to instill sustainable practices within communities.