Boy scouts from Pioneer School recently collaborated with employees of Murang'a county government and Murang'a Water Company (Muwasco) to clear the drainage channels in Murang'a Municipality. The initiative aimed to enhance El Nino preparedness and mitigate the risks associated with clogged drainage systems. The scouts, along with the county workers, worked together to clear the drainage channels that run through parts of Murang'a and Mukuyu areas.
The joint effort was organized by the Murang'a county government, which has been taking proactive measures to address waste management and drainage issues in the area. A week prior to the clearing exercise, a private investor, with funding from the World Bank, converted waste to fertilizer at the Mitumbiri Sanitary Landfill at a cost of Sh1 billion. This project was designed to address waste management by focusing on recycling for profitable gains.
During the clearing exercise, tonnes of garbage were collected and loaded into specialized trucks owned by the Murang'a County Government. The scouts played a crucial role in managing plastic waste, ensuring it was properly disposed of or recycled. Murang'a Environment CEC, Mary Magochi, emphasized the need for combined efforts to address the plastic waste issue, which poses a significant disaster risk if ignored.
CEC Magochi acknowledged that tonnes of waste that can be recycled are generated in Murang'a daily. She lauded the initiative by Muwasco and Pioneer School to educate the community on the importance of clearing the drainage system and embracing recycling. The learners were educated on proper waste management and measures to prevent indiscriminate waste dumping.
Pioneer School has been at the forefront of tackling waste management. According to Muriithi Kamau, a teacher at the school, the institution has implemented measures to ensure that waste generated within the school is recycled and reused. The school's efforts align with the county government's initiatives to promote sustainable waste management practices.
Two weeks prior to the clearing exercise, Governor Irungu Kang'ata announced that his administration, through a partnership with a private investor, had converted organic waste into organic fertilizer at Mitumbiri Sanitary Land Fill in Kimorori-Wempa Ward. The governor noted that organic fertilizer creation not only helps in waste management but also generates employment opportunities, turning waste into wealth for a more productive and sustainable environment.
The collaboration between the scouts, county workers, and other stakeholders highlights the importance of collective action in addressing environmental challenges. The initiative also underscores the need for sustained efforts to maintain a clean and healthy environment, particularly in the face of potential El Nino-related disasters. Key players are optimistic that such partnerships will contribute to a more sustainable and resilient community.
Key points
- The Murang'a county government, in partnership with other stakeholders, is taking proactive measures to address waste management and drainage issues in the area.
- The initiative to clear the drainage system and promote recycling aims to boost El Nino preparedness and mitigate associated risks.
- The collaboration between the scouts, county workers, and other stakeholders highlights the importance of collective action in addressing environmental challenges.
