NEMA issues ultimatum on plastic bottles ban

Manufacturers of plastic bottles have until the 30th April this year to come up with a plan on how to recycle the bottles in order to curb environment pollution.

According to the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), the move was prompted by the irresponsible disposal of plastic bottles in the country even after the plastic ban.

Speaking to the media on Thursday, January 25, NEMA Chair John Konchella warned the manufacturers who do not adhere to the directive the government saying that the authority may be forced to prohibit production and sale of plastic bottles.

NEMA subsequently issued notice to markets flouting plastic bags ban that they risk closure.

In a joint operation with the Police, NEMA Director General Prof. Geoffrey Wahungu said that an operation is currently underway to help in the implementation of the ban on plastic bags in areas such as City Market, Park Market, Gikomba Market, Lower Kabete and Mlolongo Market where the use of plastic bags is still ongoing.

Also present was Nairobi Police Commissioner Japheth Koome who emphasized on their mandate to enforce the law adding that the police will not tolerate anybody forming gangs to resist the ban.

“To companies using plastic bottles, if they put up a recycling plant will help a lot but if they continue clogging our drainage, then we will ban the plastic bottles.” said Koome.

Konchella urged the police to be on the lookout for unscrupulous businessmen who are sneaking in plastic bags through the Western region and Lunga Lunga borders.

The police commissioner has now requested Kenyans and chairmen of various markets to address the matter before they are forced to step in.