As part of realising the Africa We Want Blueprint and Master Plan for Sustainable Development and Economic Growth of the Continent, Kenya has been identified as the next producer of waste energy.

The decision comes as the demand for electricity in Africa is expected to triple by 2040 from the current 931 terawatts, there is urgent need to have an alternative source of energy that will advocate to curb electricity deficit allowing equal disbursement of clean and reliable energy.

Following the African Single Electricity Market (AfSEM) that has connected over 1.3 billion people requires physical interconnection of African continent’s infrastructure since 2019, African Union Development Agency (AUDA) through the African ministers’ meeting was mandated to lead the development of this interconnection under its continental master plan (CMP) for electricity and transmission. This will lead electricity deficit being solved through green energy.

The AUDA-NEPAD delegation led by their principal programme officer (energy unit AUDA-NEPAD) based in South Africa Tichakunda Simbini visited Kakamega county in western Kenya and held talks with the regional Minister for Water, Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change Peninah Mukabane where they committed to collaborate with the county government in the development of a waste energy plan as conceived in the 2063 continental master plan.

“The establishment of these centres for waste segregation and recycling aims to promote sustainability and cleanliness in the region too and should be supported and embraced fully,” said Simbini.

Kakamega County, in a pre-emptive move to sustainable waste management, has unveiled plans to establish material recovery points that will play a crucial role in sorting and managing the waste generated in within, ensuring proper disposal and recycling practices.

“Under this initiative, various types of waste, including biodegradable waste, solid waste, plastics, electronic waste (e-waste), and other forms of waste, will be systematically segregated at the material recovery centers and this will enable efficient and environmentally responsible disposal methods.” said the minister.

“The County government of Kakamega led by the department of water, environment, natural resources and climate change has held talks with African Union development agency to construct a waste energy plant in Kakamega, which be our turning point in reliable and efficiency green energy as the plant will be targeting sugarcane and other biomass waste to generate cost friendly electric power,” she explained.

 The minister added that once the project is initiated it seeks to promote renewable energy in unison and will also incorporate the climate change targets set by the Kakamega county governor Fernandez Barasa’s administration while at the same time supplying electricity to communities within Kakamega County.

Speaking during the meeting, Peninah Mukabane, the county executive committee members (CECM) water, environment, natural resources and climate change welcomed the move stating that the County under was committed and looking forward to see its residents fully sensitized and prepared to tackle climate change effects across the county.

The minister further noted that the renewable energy shall ensure environmental management in the rural areas as well as promoting public health for residents of the County.

“One of the key objectives of the county government is to recycle biodegradable waste. To achieve this, an organic fertiliser factory will be set up in the Matawa, Mumias West Sub-County in collaboration with Regen Organics. This facility will employ efficient, zero-waste processes to produce high-quality organic fertilizer, contributing to both waste reduction and sustainable agricultural practices.” She revealed.

Earlier in another meeting, Deputy Governor Ayub Savula, emphasised the significance of this ambitious project during the launch of the monthly clean-up activities.

“Our aim is to establish an organic fertiliser factory that applies cutting-edge techniques to convert biodegradable waste into a valuable resource. This will besides contributing to a cleaner environment, it will also enhance agricultural productivity,” he had stated.

To address the challenge of non-biodegradable waste, particularly plastic waste, the county government has devised an appropriate disposal strategy. It involves designating specific dumping sites located on the outskirts of Kakamega town for the disposal of such.

Additionally, users of plastic bottles will be required to actively participate in the disposal process through extended user responsibilities. These measures aim to minimise the environmental impact of plastic waste and promote responsible waste management practices among the community.

To foster a culture of cleanliness, the county government has designated every third Friday of the month as a dedicated day for community clean-up exercise. Residents of the county will be expected to donate an hour of their time, starting from 8 am, to clean up their surroundings. This collective effort will not only enhance the overall cleanliness of Kakamega but also create a positive image for visitors as the county prepares to host the African Nation’s Cup later this year.

Deputy Governor Savula expressed optimism about the impact of these initiatives on Kakamega future prospects. “Our commitment to cleanliness will position Kakamega as a preferred destination for national and international events. It will also attract tourists who value sustainable practices and a pristine environment,” he affirmed.

In line with their waste management objectives, the county government through its assembly is set to prioritise the establishment of sustainable waste management legislation. These regulations will help create an enabling environment for effective waste management practices and ensure the long-term success of the initiatives.

Furthermore, the county government intends to enter into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with special interest groups in waste management. This collaboration aims to establish material recovery facilities in each ward within the county promoting waste recovery efforts and transforming waste management into an income-generating activities.

The county executive committee member for water, environment and natural resources, also emphasised the importance of adhering to the ban on the use of plastic bags for packaging. She sternly warned traders against violating this ban, reiterating the county’s commitment to combating plastic pollution and promoting sustainable alternatives

As Kakamega County takes decisive steps towards effective waste management, it sets a commendable example for other regions to follow. Through the establishment of material recovery centers, recycling efforts, and community engagement, the county government aims to create a cleaner and more sustainable environment for its residents while positioning Kakamega as a beacon of responsible waste management practices.

• A Tell Media report / By Isaac Wakhungu Andanje