Machakos: The government has called upon Kenyans to rethink how they produce, consume, and dispose of textile clothing responsibly, with a view to adopting environmental sustainability. Environment, Climate Change and Forestry CS Dr. Deborah Barasa made the remark in a speech read on her behalf by the Administrative Secretary, State Department for Performance and Delivery Management, Chimwaga Mongo, during the World Cleanup Day celebrations held at the Machakos University grounds. The event, themed “Tackling Textile and Fashion Waste Through Circular Fashion,” was aimed at promoting sustainable practices within the fashion industry.
According to Kenya News Agency, Barasa disclosed that the fashion industry is the second largest polluter after energy contamination, significantly contributing to water contamination, carbon emissions, and resource depletion through production, manufacturing, and transportation. ‘We must rethink how we produce, consume, and dispose of clothing, as fashion must evolve into a sector defined by creativity, sustainability, and responsibility,’ she said.
The CS emphasized individual responsibility in safeguarding the environment by planting trees, conducting frequent cleanup exercises, and combating climate change to restore degraded ecosystems. ‘Today is not just about planting trees, it is about planting hope and ensuring a greener tomorrow for future generations,’ Barasa noted. The importance of Machakos as the host for the annual International Day was highlighted due to its significance in the textile industry, being home to the Athi River Export Processing Zone (EPZ) and numerous training institutions.
National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) Director General Mamo B. Mamo echoed the sentiment that waste management is a personal responsibility, stressing the need for public involvement beyond relying solely on government agencies. During a cleanup exercise at the Machakos market, involving stakeholders from various sectors, Mamo emphasized the theme of the day by encouraging the exchange of clothing materials for tree seedlings, promoting environmental responsibility. ‘Waste is a resource you can repurpose; for instance, you can recycle textiles and ensure they are no longer waste but valuable materials for reuse,’ Mamo said.
NEMA Board Chair Emilio Mugo recognized the urgency of the 2025 theme and reiterated Kenya’s commitment to waste management and environmental sustainability. He highlighted the challenge posed by Kenya’s importation of 185,000 metric tons of second-hand clothes, noting that less than one percent is recycled, leading to environmental degradation.
County Executive for Environment, Nathaniel Nganga, showcased Machakos County’s efforts in environmental management, including public sensitization on waste segregation and the ‘Ngarisha Mtaa’ project, which engages the youth in town clean-ups. Nganga urged the national government and stakeholders to collaborate with counties near Nairobi in establishing a joint waste management plant, given the influx of waste from the capital.
The event brought together key players, including KWS, KFS, KEnHA, KALRO, Kenya Meteorological Department, and the National Environmental Tribunal, among others.