Nairobi’s newly confirmed “Green Army” environmental workers will be at the frontline of a fresh crackdown on illegal dumping across the city.
Speaking at City Park during the confirmation of 3,500 workers into permanent and pensionable positions, Chief Officer for Environment Ibrahim Mosiria vowed to use the team to eliminate the garbage hotspots that have long plagued Nairobi.
“Now that the governor has put you on permanent and pensionable terms, the work begins now,” Mosiria told the workers ( Nairobi Green Army). “In your communities, you will be responsible for educating Nairobians on the importance of cleanliness. We now want to collaborate with you to close all illegal dumping sites in Nairobi.”
The announcement came just days after Governor Johnson Sakaja confirmed the workers’ new status on August 8 and revealed plans for a new autonomous body, the Green Nairobi Company.
Modeled after the Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company, the entity will take over cleaning services in the city and employ thousands more residents.
Mosiria also appealed to the governor to prioritise the health and safety of the Green Army by arranging for vaccinations against Hepatitis A and B in partnership with the Ministry of Health.
The diseases, particularly Hepatitis A, are a risk for environmental workers exposed to contaminated areas and poor sanitation.
“Governor, I want to ask you let these people get vaccines so we don’t lose them,” he urged.
He further called for the reinstatement of Sunday night clean-ups in the CBD, describing them as essential to keeping the capital’s heart spotless around the clock.
“The CBD is the face of Kenya,” Mosiria stressed.
With permanent contracts now in hand, Nairobi Green Army is expected to play a pivotal role in turning the city into a cleaner, healthier place and finally bringing an end to the scourge of illegal dumping.
