Mombasa launches application in bid to resolve garbage menace
Mombasa county government has launched a digital mobile application aimed at resolving the persistent garbage menace in the county.
The application ‘Baus Taka’ is a tech enabled solid waste management system, which links residents and garbage collectors through the use of mobile phones.
By accessing the application, residents can request for garbage collection services from registered companies contracted by the Mombasa County government for disposal.
Speaking at the launch, Mombasa Deputy Governor William Kingi termed it as a game changer.
“Baus Taka” uses an integrated solid waste management approach that comprises waste collection, waste segregation, waste reduction, waste recycling and transportation of segregated waste to designated areas,” said Kingi.
Mombasa County Environment Executive Godfrey Nato said the county, has opted for creative, innovative and sustainable solutions after it emerged that it was too expensive to set up a recycling plant.
“The biggest challenge is waste collection, because 40 per cent of the garbage is within homesteads. That is why we are encouraging the youth to come in and bridge the gap,” said Nato, adding that only garbage collectors will be allowed to dispose of garbage.
— Harrison Kivisu
