The County Assembly Committee on Lands, Physical Planning, Urban Development, Housing and Municipalities has conducted an oversight visit to the Municipalities of Kajiado, Kitengela and Ngong to assess the implementation status of municipal waste management policies.
The Committee examined critical areas including institutional arrangements and governance structures, budgetary allocations, waste collection coverage, segregation and recycling systems, environmental compliance, and enforcement mechanisms. Members sought to establish whether municipalities have dedicated Waste Management Officers, performance-based contracts, adequate financial resources, regular inspections, and effective public awareness strategies in place.
During the visits, the Committee observed that waste management remains one of the most pressing challenges facing the rapidly growing urban centres within Kajiado County. In Kajiado Municipality, the existing dumpsite is not properly managed, with waste spilling into neighbouring areas and posing environmental and public health concerns. The situation is likely to worsen if additional waste from other municipalities is directed to the site without enhanced recycling and waste reduction measures.
In Kitengela Municipality, the Committee noted that the process of acquiring an incinerator stalled after the contractor failed to deliver the project within the stipulated timelines. The access road to the Noonkopir dumpsite, which serves the town, is in a deplorable condition, hampering efficient waste transportation. Additionally, the dumpsite is under significant pressure following the encroachment and grabbing of a substantial portion of its land.
Ngong Municipality currently lacks its own dumpsite and relies on transporting waste to Kajiado, further straining the already overwhelmed facility. As the most populous sub-county, Kajiado North generates the largest volume of waste, intensifying the need for sustainable waste management solutions. The Committee also expressed concern over the failure by the County Government to remunerate Mazingira Unit workers, some of whom have worked for several months without pay, as well as the high maintenance and fueling costs of garbage trucks, which continue to hinder efficient service delivery.
The Committee emphasizes the urgent need for the County Government to strengthen support to municipalities by investing in modern waste management infrastructure, improving operational capacity, enforcing environmental compliance, and ensuring timely payment of personnel. Sustainable solid and liquid waste management systems are essential to safeguard public health, protect the environment, and support orderly urban growth.
The Committee retreats to compile a report to be tabled before the House for consideration and further action.
