Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has called on stakeholders in the environment sector to adopt innovative and modern models of advancing sanitation in urban centres.
While addressing participants at the 2019 Kenya Sanitation Conference Gala Dinner in Nairobi, Sonko said governments cannot work in isolation in fixing environment-related challenges.
He said increasing population in urban centres poses a great challenge especially to international development partners.
With the population in Nairobi now estimated to be around seven million people, Sonko said high level sanitation programs must be put in place to safeguard against chronic health hazards.
“Scientists and all innovators should provide functional, sustainable and affordable solutions to our people and this is possible through innovation,” Sonko said.
The governor revealed that sanitation
levels in Nairobi have improved and that water network coverage now stands at 81% with sewer coverage now at 50%.
With more investment in innovation, more resources will be saved and protected, he noted.
“These resources could include human, financial, social and natural resources that have repeatedly been channeled towards this course,” Sonko said.
The innovation, he said, should focus on hygienic behaviour, water stewardship and capacity building.
He called on private entrepreneurs to use unique business models and embrace a culture that supports innovation.
The county government has rolled out more programs aimed at improving access to water, increasing connection to sewer lines and opening up drainage systems.
Water and Sanitation Cabinet Secretary Simon Chelugui said cleaning cities needs collectiveness.
He urged counties to be innovative and embrace new technologies.
“Cleanliness does not involve any particular individual. It’s a collective measure,” he said.
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