Dumped plastic bag waste. Several supermarkets had begun packing goods sold to their customers in recyclable materials such as cotton bags. [Photo|Daily Nation]
As Kenya effects the ban on plastic bags, starting Monday August 28, 2017, Kisumu residents have greatly welcomed the move.
They said the ban will see some of the popular dumpsites in the lakeside city, decompose waste easily, and help in environmental health.
Kisumu Residents Voice chairman Audi Ogada said plastic bags waste at Kachok dumpsite has been a menace in the city, since they do not decompose easily.
"We expect a cleaner environment, and a larger supply of fish from Lake Victoria," he said.
Several supermarkets had begun packing goods sold to their customers in recyclable materials such as cotton bags.
However shoppers at supermarkets such as Nakumatt, are required to purchase small size bags too carry their goods, while at Khetias and Tumaini supermarket entrances, a notice directs customers to carry their own packing bags.
Ogada however called on the new Kisumu County Government, led by Governor Prof Anyang' Nyong'o to ensure waste from infamous dumping sites are recycled.
During his inauguration, Nyong'o pledged to clean up the city and remove the waste at Kachok, to a proper dump site where the solid waste would be used for making fertilisers and chemicals.