The National Environment Management Authority (Nema) has announced a ban on the use of plastic bags used for collecting and disposing garbage.

In a notice dated April 8, 2024 Nema advised Kenyans that they have 90 days to stop using plastic bags from the date of the notice.

“For the foregoing therefore and to ensure environmentally sound management of the organic waste fraction, the Authority directs that within 90 days from the date of this notice:

“The use of conventional plastic bags/bin liners for collection of organic waste shall thus cease forthwith,” read part of a notice from Nema.

Meanwhile, the government agency has directed all garbage to be carried in biodegradable garbage bags.

In addition, Nema has directed county governments and licensed private waste service providers to provide their clients with 100% biodegradable bags.

“All organic waste generated by households, private sector and public sector institutions, private and public functions and events; shall strictly be segregated and placed in 100% biodegradable garbage bags/bin liners only,” Nema stated.

According to Nema, the new directive is in line with Section 12 of the Sustainable Waste Management Act, 2022.

Nema’s directive comes approximately seven years after the government of Kenya imposed a ban on manufacture, importation and use of plastic carrier bags in the country.

The government had banned the use of plastic carrier bags for commercial and household packaging.