Why Eastleigh's garbage problem could soon be a thing of the past
For many years, Eastleigh has struggled with waste management issues. With the new approach introduced by Zanox, the situation appears to be changing.
Eastleigh has long struggled with a garbage disposal problem. Streets and back alleys have frequently been filled with waste due to ineffective collection systems.
A newly formed company, Zanox, has stepped in to address the issue. Since officially starting operations last month, Zanox has introduced a structured garbage collection system that has significantly reduced waste accumulation, particularly on major roads.
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In the past, certain streets served as informal dumping sites where garbage piles would grow due to delays in removal.
Lorries belonging to Zanox collection garbage at night in Eastleigh. (Abdirahman Khalif)
To deal with this issue, Zanox has deployed over 25 garbage collection lorries. These vehicles operate in partnership with the Green Army, ensuring waste is removed regularly.
The company has also partnered with malls and buildings in the area, requiring them to use designated garbage collection services instead of informal methods.
Previously, some businesses and property owners relied on street families to dispose of their waste at a small fee. This often led to improper dumping on the streets.
Additionally, some small waste collection companies lacking proper resources used handcarts to move garbage. They would sometimes leave waste in back streets for later collection, causing further accumulation.
Zanox has introduced a new system to prevent this. With over 70 employees, the company is using technology to improve efficiency.
A mobile app has been developed to keep customers informed, sending a message immediately after their garbage has been collected. The company also ensures that all waste is transported directly to the Dandora landfill without delays.
Over the past few weeks, Eastleigh has seen a noticeable improvement in cleanliness.
Abdisalam Adan Hussein, the director of Zanox, during an interview at his office. (Abdirahman Khalif)
Abdisalam Adan Hussein, the director of Zanox, is optimistic about the future of waste management in the area.
"In the next few months, Eastleigh will be the cleanest neighbourhood not only in Nairobi but in Kenya," he said. "Very soon, people will be using Eastleigh as an example of cleanliness."
Zanox mostly operates at night when business activities have reduced. By morning, the area is clean, ensuring minimal disruption to daily operations.
"The investment in Eastleigh is huge. Seeing it dirty and full of garbage is unacceptable. That is why we work every single day to make sure it remains clean," Abdisalam added.
The company is working in partnership with Nairobi City County, the office of Kamukunji Member of Parliament Yusuf Hassan, and local Members of County Assembly. Their support has played a role in the success of the initiative.
For many years, Eastleigh has struggled with waste management issues. With the new approach introduced by Zanox, the situation appears to be changing.
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