Open waste burning. [Photo: kts.co.ke]
Nakuru county government in conjunction with the Green Belt Movement has embarked on a sensitization campaign on health hazards brought about by open burning of solid waste.
According to Green Belt Movement`s programme director Teresia Muthoni, burning of solid waste has extended into residential areas triggering respiratory complications after residents inhale toxins from the smoke.
Speaking in Gilgil, Muthoni said continued exposure to the poisonous fumes leads to babies being born with congenital illnesses.
“Locals need to be more informed about the health hazards brought by open burning. Many are suffering from respiratory infections and the root cause has been narrowed down to the fumes,” she said.
The programme which has also begun in Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu brought together clergy, teachers, public health professionals and private solid waste collectors.
The campaign, which National Environment Management Authority has joined, also seeks to educate the public about use of plastic as a way to support to the national ban on plastics.