Nakuru: Nakuru County Government intends to partner with an American company to promote investments in technologies that transform solid waste into energy and fuel.
According to Kenya News Agency, the initiative plans to convert approximately 300 metric tons of garbage generated daily into market-ready eco-friendly construction materials and decorative home goods such as bricks, tiles, and artworks, among others.
County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Water, Environment, Climate Change, Energy, and Natural Resources, Dr. Nelson Maara, said they are collaborating with various strategic partners to exploit innovation and transformation through the conversion of waste disposal sites into centers of sustainable innovation. Dr. Maara emphasized that the County Government's vision to attract local and foreign investors into garbage recycling projects aims to restore environmental dignity and create sustainable jobs, especially for the increasing number of unemployed youths in Kenya.
The CECM spoke after holding deliberations with local representatives of Coalesce Company, a New York-based firm specializing in sustainable waste management solutions. Dr. Maara stated, "This is not just another clean-up campaign. It's a strategic shift, an environmental and economic revolution." He noted that Governor Susan Kihika's administration is actively embracing technology-driven solutions to transform waste into economic opportunities.
Dr. Maara highlighted the importance of modern solid waste disposal, wastewater treatment, responsible waste management policies, and circular economy initiatives in creating a sustainable future. He detailed the county's milestones in managing waste, including the formulation of policies, zoning for waste collection efficiency, and engaging private waste collectors under the Public-Private Partnership model.
The CECM observed that urbanization and industrialization have made solid waste management a significant challenge in Kenya's urban centers. He called for Nakuru County to reduce, reuse, and recycle waste through adequate sanitation programs and the exploitation of waste-to-energy technologies.
The county has begun rehabilitating the 30-acre Giotto dumpsite, with measures in place to prevent garbage spillage during rainy seasons. Additionally, the Environment department has demarcated the dumpsite for separate dumping of recyclable and biodegradable waste. Dr. Maara urged residents to practice reusing, recycling, and recovering useful materials from waste.
County Director for Environment and Climate Change, Ms. Grace Karanja, explained that the county is actively embracing a circular waste economy, moving away from the traditional linear model. She disclosed that the County Government has acquired a 25-acre parcel of land in Gilgil to promote this approach. Ms. Karanja noted that businesses could benefit from cost savings, innovation, and improved brand image by adopting circular economy principles.
Coalesce Company spokesperson, Mr. Joseph Moenga, highlighted the firm's interest in deploying waste-to-energy technologies in Nakuru. He emphasized the potential environmental and economic benefits, including carbon credit earnings and job creation. Mr. Moenga praised Nakuru for enacting the Waste Management Act and supporting the transition to a circular economy.