Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has announced a bold new strategy to tackle the county’s growing waste management crisis by engaging youth-led Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) in solid waste collection.

This initiative is aimed at improving cleanliness, creating employment, and protecting public health in the coastal city. Currently, Mombasa produces over 1,200 tons of solid waste every day.

However, only 52% of this waste reaches the official dump site, with the remaining portion left uncollected, often ending up in open spaces, waterways, and residential neighborhoods.

“Mombasa generates over 1,200 tons of solid waste daily, yet only 52% makes it to the official dump site. The remaining uncollected pollutants in our communities threaten public health,” Governor Nassir stated.

To address this pressing issue, the county government is rolling out a new waste collection model that places local youth at the heart of the solution.

Under the revamped system, youth-led CBOs will be contracted to manage waste collection within specific zones across the county.

The move is expected to enhance efficiency, increase coverage, and empower young people economically.

“Under our new model, youth-led Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) will be contracted to collect waste within designated zones across the county,” Governor Nassir announced.

The involvement of community groups directly, the county says, will foster a greater sense of ownership, accountability, and responsiveness in waste management efforts, with the integration of youth also being praised as a progressive step towards inclusive governance and localized solutions to environmental issues.

Governor Nassir emphasized that the initiative is part of a broader commitment to transforming Mombasa into a cleaner, healthier, and more livable city.

As the program rolls out, the county will monitor its impact on both cleanliness and youth employment, with hopes that the model could be replicated in other counties facing similar challenges.