By Matilda Atieno
The County Government today unveiled a transformative milestone in the fight against waste management and plastic pollution, realizing a collaborative vision through a Financing Locally-Led climate Action (FLLoCA ) funded project that has led to the inauguration of our Material Recovery Facility (MRF) in Kondele Ward Kisumu Central Sub county.
This facility is one of the six satellite MRF that have been established through FLLoCA, that not only exemplifies sustainable waste management but also serves as a beacon for community empowerment and environmental stewardship.
The facility’s operations are bolstered by three equipped segregation units to ensure efficient and safe processing of collected waste.
The new model MRF is capable of processing at least 400 tonnes of mixed dry household waste annually. This initiative is a significant stride toward the County’s mission of preventing lake-bound plastic and fostering dignified waste management practices in the surrounding communities.
Beyond environmental benefits, the MRF has a profound social impact with the aim of creating jobs and extending proper waste management services to the communities. Notably, Gasia Poa waste management services LTD, is an experienced entity that will oversee the management of the facility as the collection efforts will be carried out by self-help groups and individuals providing critical employment opportunities and fostering community development.
Speaking to manager Dickens Ochieng, the Gasia poa waste management services will provide handcarts and waste beans to facilitate waste collection around the community as well as working closely with schools including Manyata, Kosawo and obinju primary schools in the area.
During the Launch, the CEC member for Water Environment Climate Change and Natural Resources Madam Judith Oluoch assured the community that this MRF will serve as a replicable satellite model for sustainable waste management noting that plans are underway to expand this blueprint to other communities in Kisumu, aligning with the County’s vision of an environment where all household waste is managed under dignified and fair conditions.
According to Madam Judith Oluoch the facility adheres to the highest social standards, with investments in community engagement. Plus, Gasia poa waste management services Ltd will ensure transparency and accountability in waste collection and processing.
The CEC member also emphasized that the inauguration of the Kondele MRF marks a significant advancement in combating waste management and promoting sustainable development, noting that together with our incredible community the project seeks to be bigger. Madam Judith also invited stakeholders, communities, and environmental enthusiasts to join in this transformative journey toward a cleaner, more sustainable future of Kisumu.
The unveiling of the Kondele MRF is a build up activity towards the 2025 World Environment Day celebrations set to be marked tomorrow, the 5th of June.
The event was also graced by Madam Betty Okero of CSO Network, the Chief Officer for Water, Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources Mr. Erick Ogalo, Kondele Ward Climate Change Planning Committee (WCCPC) members, private partners as well as County Officials.