I'm not Michuki, but I will try my best - Enviroment CS nominee Duale

In Kenya, it is impossible to overlook the name of the late John Michuki when discussing environmental issues.

When he died on February 21, 2012, Michuki was the Minister of Environment and Natural Resources.

He headed the Environment Ministry at a time of heightened global interest in climate change, and he was on the frontlines of cleaning up the Nairobi River.

When Cabinet Secretary Nominee for Environment Aden Duale appeared for vetting before the National Assembly Appointment Committee, his name came to mind.

When asked about the Nairobi River clean-up, Duale said he would put his front foot forward in handling the matter.

"I'm not John Michuki, but I will be like John Michuki. I'll try my best," he said.

The late Michuki was also known for his tough act towards environmental agencies.

Environment CS nominee Aden Duale and his Defence counterpart Soipan Tuya at a tree planting exercise at the Embakasi Garrison on May 29, 2024 (Photo: Ministry of Environment)

At one point, he cautioned the National Environment Management Authority (Nema) directors and staff to deliver or face the sack.

The late minister also warned non-performers that we would not tolerate a culture of impunity, laziness, or ineptitude.

Going further, Duale noted that despite the Nairobi Rivers Commission's move from the Ministry of Environment to the Office of the Deputy President, he will deal with the Nairobi River issue.

"The commission is under the Deputy President, but we need to deal with Nairobi Rivers. The pollution that is going on in the Nairobi Rivers is because of the dysfunctional sewerage system that needs to be upgraded," he noted.

The nominee also pointed out that the dumpsites in Nairobi, including the main one, Dandora, are located along the Nairobi River.

Duale stated that Nairobi's county requires another dumpsite besides Dandora.

He said, "If appointed, I hope the governor of Nairobi will listen to me; he will have to look for other dumping sites outside the Nairobi Rivers course."