Vihiga County: Vihiga County’s Department of Environment has pledged to scale up public education campaigns and work with local groups to establish waste segregation and recycling centres across the county. Governor Dr. Wilber Ottichilo made the pledge as the county joined the rest of the world in marking World Environment Day with a strong call to end plastic pollution and embrace a circular economy for a cleaner, healthier future. The celebrations, held at Walodeya Primary School in Emuhaya Sub-County, brought together county officials, environmental stakeholders, students, and local organisations in a day filled with clean-up exercises, tree planting, exhibitions, and public sensitisation.

According to Kenya News Agency, the governor, who was the chief guest at the occasion, emphasised the county’s commitment to environmental sustainability through practical, grassroots action. ‘We cannot continue to choke our rivers, soils, and air with plastic waste. If we want better health, food security, and a safer climate, we must rethink how we produce, use, and dispose of plastics,’ said Governor Ottichilo.

This year’s theme, ‘Ending Plastic Pollution: Strengthening Circular Economy for a Clean Environment and Improved Livelihoods’, echoes global concerns over rising plastic waste and its impacts on ecosystems and human health. Chief Officer for Environment, Energy, Natural Resources and Climate Change Richard Boiyo called on residents to take responsibility for environmental care. ‘A circular economy means nothing goes to waste. It is a mindset shift from dumping to designing products and systems that regenerate nature and create green jobs,’ he said.

Local schools, including Walodeya Primary School, Chavakali High School, KMTC (Vihiga Campus), KAFU, Hambale Primary School, and Igunga High School, actively participated in the day’s activities. The students planted trees and took part in environmental exhibitions highlighting creative ways to recycle plastic and conserve nature. Also present were partner organisations such as Kenya Airways, Mara Grows, and First Aid Kenya, which showcased environmental solutions and engaged attendees on waste management, health, and sustainability.