By John Kariuki
The Director General of the National Environment Management Authority, Dr. Mamo B. Mamo, EBS, has directed the Kenya Producer Responsibility Organisation to convene a comprehensive validation workshop bringing together key stakeholders across the value chain to build consensus on the proposed Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) fee structure, in accordance with the Sustainable Waste Management (Extended Producer Responsibility) Regulations, 2024.
The directive underscores NEMA’s commitment to ensuring transparency, accountability, and stakeholder participation in the implementation of Kenya’s EPR framework. The Authority has been spearheading the implementation of EPR regulations, which place responsibility on manufacturers and importers to manage the entire lifecycle of their products, including post-consumer waste, either directly or through registered Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs).
EPR fees play a critical role in financing the collection, transportation, recovery, recycling, and environmentally sound management of post-consumer waste. These resources are intended to support a sustainable circular economy while reducing the environmental burden associated with waste disposal.
NEMA has expressed concern that the continued collection of EPR fees by KEPRO under a framework that does not fully comply with the regulatory requirements risks undermining the objectives of the EPR Regulations and slowing progress toward effective waste management. By directing a validation process involving all relevant stakeholders, the Authority aims to establish a fair, transparent, and legally compliant fee structure that enjoys broad industry support.
The move is expected to enhance confidence among producers, recyclers, waste handlers, and consumers while reinforcing Kenya’s commitment to sustainable environmental governance and responsible production practices. Through collaborative engagement and adherence to the law, NEMA seeks to ensure that the EPR system delivers its intended environmental, social, and economic benefits for present and future generations.
