The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has announced a fresh crackdown on companies suspected of manufacturing outlawed polythene bags, despite the nationwide ban that took effect in 2017.
In a statement issued on Thursday, August 21, the authority revealed that reports have emerged indicating that some factories have continued to discreetly produce the banned bags. NEMA confirmed that inspectors have already been dispatched to physically scrutinise these facilities, with offenders facing strict legal action.
“This follows reports that some companies have been operating discreetly in the production of the outlawed bags,” NEMA said. “We urge members of the public to report any persons involved in the production or distribution of banned plastic bags.”
The authority encouraged citizens to provide information through the hotlines 0741 101 100, 0786 101 100, or via email at incidence@nema.go.ke.
The government outlawed plastic carrier bags in August 2017, citing severe environmental and health hazards. Polythene bags were blamed for clogging drainage systems, contributing to urban flooding, endangering livestock that ingested them, and releasing toxic chemicals when burned.
The ban, spearheaded by former Environment Cabinet Secretary Judy Wakhungu, led to the closure of approximately 176 companies that were previously engaged in plastic bag production. NEMA was mandated to enforce the prohibition through regular crackdowns, arrests, and prosecutions.
Under the Environmental Management and Co-ordination Act, individuals or businesses found manufacturing, importing, selling, or using banned plastic bags face penalties of between Ksh2 million and Ksh4 million, imprisonment for one to two years, or both.
This renewed operation comes months after NEMA dismissed reports claiming it planned to impose fines of Ksh100 million on violators, or Ksh6 million for poor waste management practices such as littering or lacking dustbins in vehicles.
NEMA reaffirmed that its current focus remains on eradicating illegal production and ensuring compliance with the plastic bag ban. “NEMA will continue surveillance to eradicate illegal production and ensure offenders are prosecuted,” the authority emphasized.
The latest crackdown highlights the government’s determination to preserve the environment and curb the re-emergence of a practice that was outlawed nearly eight years ago.
