At Least 30 Arrested for Urinating, Littering Nairobi Streets

At least 30 individuals were apprehended on Monday night during a rigorous crackdown on illegal urination and littering. The operation, led by Nairobi County’s environment officials, signals a stronger enforcement of cleanliness regulations aimed at addressing the growing issue of public sanitation.

Geoffrey Mosiria, Nairobi County Environment Chief Officer, spearheaded the operation, emphasizing the county’s zero-tolerance stance towards public urination. “Anyone caught urinating in the streets of Nairobi will be arrested and face legal action. Tonight, 30 people have been apprehended in the CBD and will appear in court,” Mosiria stated. This stringent approach is part of a broader initiative to uphold public hygiene and prevent the streets from becoming a repository for waste.

The crackdown is not only focused on urination but also targets those engaged in littering and illegal dumping of garbage. Mosiria highlighted the county’s commitment to restoring order by opening and managing more facilities for relieving oneself and disposing of waste. “We plan to open more public restrooms and ensure they are managed efficiently. These facilities will be strategically located and available around the clock to accommodate those in need,” he added.

The lack of adequate public toilets has been a persistent issue, often forcing individuals to use the streets as their restroom. The existing facilities are frequently perceived as expensive, especially for those with limited financial means, which exacerbates the problem. By expanding and managing more accessible facilities, the county aims to reduce instances of public urination and improve overall public health.

In addition to the enforcement against urination and littering, the officials are also targeting unregulated food joints in the city. With rising concerns over food safety, particularly cases of stomach upsets, the county is intensifying efforts to ensure that food vendors adhere to sanitary standards. Mosiria emphasized that these regular operations are essential for maintaining public health and safety.

Street vendors, who have often been seen as major contributors to urban litter, were also on the receiving end of the crackdown. Many vendors were found with piles of trash and were instructed to clean up and dispose of their waste properly. The enforcement unit’s actions underscore the need for all city residents, including businesses, to contribute to a cleaner environment.

The Nairobi Public Nuisance Act 2021, which stipulates penalties for public urination and unsanitary conditions in food establishments, is being strictly enforced. Under this law, individuals caught urinating in public can face a fine of up to Sh10,000, a six-month jail term, or both. Similarly, those responsible for providing unsanitary conditions where food is sold can be imprisoned for up to twelve months or fined.

This recent enforcement drive has caught many offenders by surprise, highlighting the urgency of addressing public hygiene issues in Nairobi. The county’s decision to ramp up operations and recruit additional personnel for these efforts reflects a proactive approach to managing urban cleanliness and public health.

In conclusion, Nairobi’s new crackdown represents a significant step towards improving the city’s sanitation standards. By targeting illegal urination, littering, and unsanitary food practices, the county aims to foster a cleaner, safer, and more dignified environment for all residents. As the enforcement continues, the hope is that these measures will bring about a lasting change in public behavior and contribute to a more orderly and hygienic Nairobi.