Mombasa taps youth groups to lead waste collection in new clean-up drive
The new model, set to begin on a trial basis from July 1, will see each CBO allocated a specific zone where they will be tasked with collecting solid waste twice weekly, conducting weekly clean-ups, and undertaking monthly fumigation exercises.
The Mombasa County Government has unveiled a fresh approach to waste management by partnering with 41 youth-led community-based organisations (CBOs) to take over refuse collection duties across all six sub-counties.
The initiative aims to address persistent garbage woes within the tourist city.
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The new model, set to begin on a trial basis from July 1, will see each CBO allocated a specific zone where they will be tasked with collecting solid waste twice weekly, conducting weekly clean-ups, and undertaking monthly fumigation exercises.
The move follows concerns over the county’s struggle to handle the over 1,200 tonnes of waste generated daily, with just over half currently reaching the designated dumpsite.
Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, who announced the initiative during a meeting with sector stakeholders, said the plan aims to tackle both environmental degradation and youth unemployment.
“This is not merely a sanitation issue; it is a matter of restoring dignity and creating opportunity,” he said.
To facilitate the operations, the county has purchased 41 specially adapted garbage collection tuk-tuks and four additional compactors.
Tools
The CBOs will also be provided with motorbikes, protective gear, insurance, and other necessary tools.
“If this model proves effective, we intend to scale it countywide and later entrust the groups with managing liquid waste as well,” Governor Abdulswamad said.
Deputy Governor Francis Thoya, who also serves as the CECM for Environment, pointed out the limitations of private waste collectors, noting that many informal settlements and densely populated areas like Tudor and Magogoni cannot be accessed by standard garbage trucks.
“These tuk-tuks will help navigate tight spaces where garbage has remained uncollected for far too long,” he said.
Thoya added that while the project is a sanitation intervention, its primary impact will be economic, giving young people structured work in an often-overlooked sector.
“Hand carts have failed to keep up with the waste load. This initiative brings not only equipment but also recognition and respect to the work our young people do,” he said.
The Chief Officer for Environment and Solid Waste Management, Hamid Shehan, issued a stern warning that under the new plan, each CBO would be held accountable for the cleanliness of their zone.
“Lapses will not be tolerated. If there’s garbage, we will trace it back to the responsible party,” he said.
County officials hope that the initiative will reduce illegal dumping, improve public hygiene, and set the foundation for a more inclusive, decentralised waste management system in the coastal city.
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