Islamic Relief Kenya has rolled out an innovative waste management initiative in Wajir town, introducing smart three-compartment waste bins designed to promote proper waste segregation and reduce plastic pollution.
The bins, strategically installed across key points in Wajir, feature clearly labelled sections for plastics, food waste, and non-recyclables, encouraging residents to separate their waste responsibly.
The move is part of Islamic Relief’s broader environmental conservation efforts aimed at creating cleaner, greener, and more sustainable urban spaces in arid and semi-arid regions.
Award-winning photojournalist Mohammed Saman, who encountered one of the new bins during a stroll through Wajir town, described the initiative as “an inspiring step toward environmental responsibility.”
“At first, I was simply curious, but I soon learned that this is part of a transformative waste management project by Islamic Relief,” Saman shared.
“These bins are more than just waste disposal tools; they symbolise community responsibility and collective action against plastic pollution.”
The initiative aims to address the growing issue of plastic waste that has long plagued urban centres in northern Kenya.
By promoting recycling and waste sorting, Islamic Relief hopes to instil a culture of environmental stewardship among residents while improving public hygiene and aesthetics in Wajir town.
Islamic Relief Kenya’s Environmental Program Coordinator noted that the waste segregation project aligns with national efforts to combat plastic pollution and meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to clean cities, climate action, and responsible consumption.
Residents have welcomed the bins with enthusiasm, appreciating their clean design and accessibility.
The organisation plans to expand the initiative to other towns in Wajir County, accompanied by awareness campaigns to educate the public on proper waste disposal and recycling practices.
“This project is not just about cleaning our streets,” said the coordinator.
“It’s about changing mindsets and building a community that values sustainability.”
As Wajir residents continue to embrace the bins, the message from Islamic Relief Kenya is clear: protecting the environment begins with small, consistent actions.