HerDithy: Honey Suckers solution to waste #7

 Urban planning and development are factors contributing to the chaos being created by uneven distribution of resources, including water and sanitation. The issue of solid waste management in the country continues to pose a great threat to sustainable development despite poor urban governance, limited employment, and a dearth of other life enhancing opportunities foe existing and incoming dwellers. This pattern of urban growth has given rise to an increasing urbanization of poverty, with 60% of Nairobi residents living in slums or slum- like conditions characterized by overcrowding, social and economic marginalization, poor housing and environmental conditions, insecurity of life and property, violence and social unrest.

The conversation is around two case studies: Mombasa and Nairobi.  

Nairobi, a city that accommodates for million people, is a facing a continuous problem of water and sanitation. The normalization of under delivery of public amenities extends its effects to health and social security.  Waste management is an industry that makes up a source of livelihood to a few Kenyans, cleaning up after everyone`s mess. The famous `Honey Sucker` exhaust trucks are a common sight to come across town. Most of the municipal solid waste is dumped at the Dandora dump sight. For a fact, they do not get paid enough to do that kind of work, but the economic wage disparities will not have any of that. This explains why the services across the city are more or less, lukewarm. Looking at the Central Business District in Nairobi, waste management, one can say, is distinguished by location. Downtown, the mess is swept and bundled up on the side of the road while Up town, the roads are narrow, clean and even have tress for shade.



Following our second case study, in Mombasa, the municipal solid waste forms a thick layer of grey matter which stays afloat on the Indian Ocean. What is beneath, is a cumulative effort by human beings to choke the life out of the aquatic biodiversity. Kenya`s marine and coastal resources are subject to increasing environmental impacts from coastal tourism and including overuse or overharvesting of resources, sewage and oil pollution. The discharging of raw and industrial waste into the ocean is continually worrying marine scientists and experts. To mitigate this growing crisis, not much effort is being driven to secure thriving economic enhancement for the tourism industry that defines the Coastal towns.

For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.” Isaac Newton

At some future point, the effects of our conveniences will cost us. Eating unhealthy food and not exercising will bring health complications. The same thing happens with degrading our natural resources. The environment grows to be hostile, and with the instinct we must find means to survive. Permanent solutions to address the waste management disaster will make the cities and country more attractive, safe and habitable for visitors and dwellers. Our tourist attractions are pushed by the merit of maintaining order. The beauty of our natural treasures must be preserved by advocating for collective responsibility to care and conserve the environment. Also, you who is enjoying that cold plastic- bottled water, running water as you brush your teeth, be an eco-sensitive human being. Save water, recycle and plant trees.

 

Mwihaki Karanja

 


 

 

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