MURANG’A: Members of the Murang’a County Assembly have expressed concern over the inadequate electronic waste management system within the county, citing potential health and environmental risks. The assembly members highlighted the need for improved infrastructure and public awareness to tackle the increasing volume of e-waste resulting from rapid technological advancements and digital consumption.

According to Kenya News Agency, the report presented to the assembly pointed out the absence of proper facilities for handling electronic waste and insufficient public education on the potential hazards posed by improper disposal. Moses Macharia Mirara, Chairperson of the sectorial committee on ICT and E-Government, emphasized the urgency for a systematic approach to e-waste disposal to safeguard human health and the environment. Mirara noted that the digital revolution has significantly contributed to the accumulation of e-waste, necessitating effective management strategies by the county government.

The report
detailed the dangers associated with harmful materials found in electronic components, such as mercury, chromium, and cadmium, which can lead to severe health issues, including chronic brain and respiratory damage. Mirara underscored that e-waste management aims to mitigate these adverse effects on human health and the environment.

Other assembly members, including MCA Kahumbu ward Isaac Chefman and nominated MCA Pauline Njeri, supported the motion, stressing the importance of raising public awareness about e-waste hazards and proper disposal methods. They highlighted the lack of awareness, information, and technological advancement as key challenges in managing e-waste in the county.

The MCAs recommended several measures, including the establishment of public education programs by the County Executive Committee Member for ICT and E-Government, the development of infrastructure for e-waste collection and disposal, and the initiation of policies to ensure compliance with e-waste regulations. They also called
for resource allocation to support these initiatives.

The report aligns with the Kenya National Digital Master plan 2022-2032, which emphasizes responsible electronic waste disposal as a crucial element of environmental sustainability and public health within the country’s digital ecosystem.