Chronicle Editor
Cape Town — Kenyan Government is making massive strides in practicing environmental responsibility by banning the use of plastic bags at supermarkets and shopping outlets.
The country — which earlier this year built the first boat made entirely of recycled ocean plastic to sail along the coasts of Kenya, Tanzania and
Mozambique before arriving in South Africa — will impose fines on those people who violate the ban.
Those found to be in violation of the ban will see a maximum fine of up to US $38 000 (R496 213.11 @R13.06/$) or serve a four-year prison term.
While some exemptions apply – such as for industrial purposes – the ban applies to the use, manufacture and importation of plastics.
This also includes plastic bags coming into Kenya via the main transport hubs, especially airports. Duty-free plastic bags, sealed tamper-evident bags and small 1-litre liquid bags are part of the restriction.
The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) is setting up an exchange kiosk in the arrivals hall at Nairobi International Airport to ensure minimal impact from arrivals at the airport.
Travellers are requested to avoid packing plastic bags in their checked-in luggage as they could face charges, and to also not take any plastic bags with them to the airport on departure.
“A recommendation is to bring along eco-friendly travel bags which could be used for purchases while in Kenya, and which are safe for airport travel, transit and departure,” says Thompsons Travel. — AFP
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