In Kisii town, Kenya, a former dumpsite has been transformed into a recreational park, offering residents a green space for relaxation and leisure. The Nyambera dumpsite, which posed environmental and public health risks, has been rehabilitated at a cost of Sh35 million. The park, now known as Etaya Governor's Park, provides a peaceful escape for residents and a chance for them to connect with nature. The transformation of the dumpsite into a park is a result of efforts by the Kisii county government to improve waste management and create a cleaner environment.
The Nyambera dumpsite was a significant environmental and health concern for residents in Kisii town. The dumpsite was a breeding ground for diseases, and the stench and smoke affected patients at the nearby Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital. A research report by Kisii University researchers found toxic levels of heavy metals in the air, land, and nearby water bodies. The report highlighted the need for urgent action to address the environmental and health risks posed by the dumpsite. The National Environmental Complaints Committee ordered the closure of the dumpsite in February 2022, paving the way for its transformation.
The Kisii county government, led by Governor Simba Arati, has implemented various initiatives to improve waste management in the area. The county government has set up a Material Recovery Facility (MRF) at the Kisii Agricultural Training Centre, which has the capacity to process 50 tonnes of waste per day. The MRF is a key component of the county's waste management strategy, which aims to reduce waste and promote recycling. The facility is supported by the UK government under the Sustainable Urban Economic Development (SUED) Programme.
The transformation of the Nyambera dumpsite into a recreational park has also created economic opportunities for residents. Hundreds of women and youth are engaged in the maintenance and beautification of the park, earning an income and improving their livelihoods. The park has also become a popular spot for residents to walk, rest, and socialize. The county government has also launched the 'Kazi Mashinani' programme, which provides employment opportunities for youth and women in waste management and environmental conservation.
The Kisii county government has acquired modern waste management equipment and machinery to aid in source segregation and safe transportation of waste. The county has introduced color-coded bins to facilitate waste segregation, with green bins for organic waste, black bins for general waste, and blue bins for recyclable waste. The initiative is in line with the National Environment Management Authority's approved color coding scheme for waste management.
Kisii County was selected to host this year's World Cleanup Day celebrations, providing an opportunity for the county to showcase its efforts in waste management and environmental conservation. The Head of UN-Habitat for East and Horn of Africa Sub Region, Ishaku Maitumbi, commended Governor Arati's administration for its collective efforts to promote sustainable regions with clean neighborhoods. Maitumbi noted that improving waste management remains critical to protecting lives, strengthening communities, and building cities.
The transformation of the Nyambera dumpsite into a recreational park is a significant achievement for the Kisii county government. The park has not only provided a green space for residents but also created economic opportunities and improved waste management in the area. The county government's efforts to promote sustainable waste management practices and create a cleaner environment have been recognized nationally, with Kisii County hosting this year's World Cleanup Day celebrations.
Key points
- The transformation of the Nyambera dumpsite into a recreational park has improved waste management and created economic opportunities for residents in Kisii town, Kenya.
