KWS conservationists report reduction in plastic waste along Malindi beaches

Dickson Wekesa
4 Min Read

Conservationists in Malindi Sub County, Kilifi County, have announced a significant reduction in beach waste due to ongoing monthly clean-up efforts.

They attributed the reduction to increased participation from various stakeholders in the campaign to keep beaches and the ocean clean.

The conservationists spoke during International Coastal Oceans Day, led by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) in collaboration with the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), local schools, the Progress Welfare Association of Malindi (PWAM), which organizes the monthly clean-ups, Kenya Red Cross, youth groups, beach operators, and hotel owners.

In Malindi, KWS coordinated beach clean-ups in groups, with volunteers covering areas from Buntuani Waterfront to Casino Beach, Coco Beach to Malindi Marine National Park, Mayungu, and Watamu along the Indian Ocean shores.

Malindi Marine National Park Senior Warden, Ntindi Kassim, said both beach and underwater clean-ups revealed a reduction in waste, attributing the success to strong community partnerships.

“The reduction in waste is a positive sign that less trash is entering the ocean, which will help protect marine life. We are working to keep the sea free from plastic pollution,” said Kassim

Chairperson of PWAM, Kate Mwikali observed the improvement in cleanliness and the growing number of groups involved in the clean-up efforts.

She noted the appearance of recyclable packaging, reflecting increased corporate responsibility, and said they would track these companies to acknowledge their efforts.

Mwikali underscored the importance of holding manufacturers accountable for pollution, ensuring they contribute to waste reduction efforts.

Her sentiments were echoed by Vice Chairperson of Malindi Green and Blue, Charity Beduli, who urged residents to take personal responsibility for waste collection, noting that small actions can have a significant impact.

She attributed the waste reduction to both the monthly clean-ups and the Nyumba Kumi program, which encourages communities to adopt and maintain their neighborhoods.

John Mvuko Ndago, Chairman of Break Yakutsi, said participating in beach clean-ups helps protect marine life, a major tourist attraction. “It is our responsibility to keep the beaches clean and ensure marine species remain safe,” he said.

Lorenzo De Ponti, Honorary Warden of Malindi Marine Park, said that during regular diving operations, they have seen a decrease in debris retrieved from the ocean, which is a positive sign for marine life.

“We are cleaning the ocean floor, which is not visible from above, and we’re receiving great support from Marine Park officials,” De Ponti said.

Rubby Anzazi, a student from Malindi Little Angels Junior School, participated in the clean-up to help protect marine life. She urged beachgoers to dispose of waste properly to preserve the ocean environment.

Damien Kalama, a conservationist with Beach Front Floaters, noted that clean-ups not only protect marine life but also help attract tourists.

He called on the public to take these activities seriously for the benefit of the community and the environment.

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