By Matilda Atieno
KATITO, NYAKACH SUBCOUNTY—Kisumu County successfully observed World Cleanup Day in Katito town, demonstrating that local action can drive global themes. The event, which was declared a resounding success, targeted the urgent issue of tackling textile and fashion waste, moving beyond general cleanup to promote specific environmental stewardship.
The activity was spearheaded by a dedicated Nyakach environmental CBO, focusing on Katito as a strategic choice to directly sensitize traders on solid waste segregation and rally locals to embrace the circular economy within the solid waste value chain. The overarching Goal was to confront the waste crisis, especially the fast-growing textile waste problem, and build urban resilience.
The remarkable presence of a broad, multi-sectoral coalition defined the cleanup effort. Millions of individuals, organizations, civil society groups, and institutions united in this community effort, showcasing a profound commitment to sustainable change.
Key national agencies present included NEMA (National Environment Management Authority), KEFRI (Kenya Forestry Research Institute), WRA (Water Resources Authority), and NGAO (National Government Administration Officials).
The agencies worked seamlessly alongside various County departments, including Administration, Public Health, Education, Trade, Enforcement, and Environment. The robust participation of 3 schools, market leadership, and the Ward Climate Change Planning Committee (WCCPC) members ensured the initiative was both educational and deeply rooted in local economic and political structures.
The event’s theme brought a focus on raising awareness about the environmental impact of the fashion industry, promoting responsible consumption, and advocating for better waste management practices.
Moving beyond immediate waste removal, the day also secured a commitment to long-term environmental investment. KEFRI cemented its role as a key partner by generously donating 400 seedlings to the participants. This generous gesture encouraged attendees to plant the seedlings at their homes, effectively transforming a single cleanup day into a sustained, decentralized reforestation effort across Nyakach Subcounty.
The successful mobilization and execution of the Katito cleanup demonstrate Kisumu County dedication to integrating local community action with critical global environmental priorities.
