The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) issued an alarm regarding the entry of banned plastic bags into the Kenyan market, warning perpetrators that they will incur colossal fines.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, September 23, the agency said it had observed increased illegal importation, manufacturing, sale, and use of plastic bags despite a ban since 2017.
“NEMA has observed with alarm the re-appearance of banned plastic bags and packaging materials in shops and other market places,” the authority added.
By law, any individual found manufacturing, exporting, importing, selling, or even possessing plastic carrier bags or flat bags in the absence of a license risks imprisonment for a term of one to four years or a fine of between Ksh2 million and Ksh4 million or both.
To stem the tide, NEMA embarked on a new crackdown on consumers as well as suppliers. “We will pursue enforcement and inspections to ensure complete compliance with the law. Our mandate continues to be to provide a healthy, clean, and safe environment for all,” it said.
Kenya prohibited plastic carrier bags in August 2017 through a gazette notice to bar their use for domestic and commercial purposes.
Plastic flat bags other than industrial packaging were also prohibited, with some categories such as garbage bin liners and primary industrial packaging being exempted under strict control.
The regulator reminded importers, makers, and others that all those dealing with permitted plastic packaging are expected to apply for licenses and ensure the products bear the user’s name and address of contact as well as the manufacturer, according to the 2024 Management and Control of Plastic Packaging Materials Regulations.
