Nairobi County has issued a stern warning to private garbage collectors and matatu passengers involved in illegal dumping, vowing to revoke licenses and shut down unauthorised disposal sites across the city.
Speaking on Monday, June 23, 2025, through his X account, Nairobi County Chief Officer for Environment Geoffrey Mosiria said the county is intensifying its crackdown on Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) and private service providers found dumping waste in unlawful locations.
Licences at risk
Mosiria stated that any operator caught flouting county regulations will face immediate consequences, including license cancellation.
“This reckless behaviour is a major contributor to pollution affecting our environment and public health. Any CBO or private operator found dumping at unauthorised sites will have their licenses revoked without further notice,” Mosiria warned.
He added that the crackdown will also target unregistered dumping sites across Nairobi in a bid to restore order in the waste management system.
Matatu users cautioned
Motorists and passengers, especially matatu users, were also cautioned against throwing trash onto roads. Mosiria urged commuters to make use of the public dustbins placed across the city.
“Stop illegal dumping. Do not throw garbage from your cars or matatus along road reserves, where it ends up in rivers and clogs our drainage systems,” he said.
He further emphasised the importance of collective responsibility, urging Nairobi residents to adopt a culture of environmental ownership instead of relying solely on county government interventions.
Mosiria also highlighted the need to adopt modern waste management practices seen in neighbouring countries like Rwanda, where civic responsibility and strict enforcement have improved urban cleanliness.
“We must learn from countries like Rwanda. They do not dump garbage along roads. They understand that they are the government too,” he said.
To support cleanup efforts, the county has deployed advanced machines, including street sweepers and refuse compactors, which will operate during the night to maintain clean streets and reduce flooding risks.
