Millions You'll Pay as Fine If Arrested as NEMA to Begin Crackdown Amid Re-emergence of Plastic Bags

The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has issued a stern warning to Kenyans over the illegal use of plastic bags, which were banned eight years ago.

In a public notice released on Tuesday, September 23, the Authority said it had observed a worrying trend where banned plastic bags and packaging materials were slowly returning to the market.

According to NEMA, anyone caught manufacturing, importing, selling, or even using the bags risks facing a fine of between Ksh2 million and Ksh4 million, or a jail sentence of one to four years. In some cases, offenders could face both penalties.

NEMA explained that the warning comes after its officials discovered that some traders and importers were reintroducing the outlawed products through backdoor channels.

The Authority vowed that a countrywide crackdown would begin immediately to stop the resurgence.

“The Authority has noted with great concern the unlawful return of plastic carrier bags and flat bags in several markets. Any person found handling them will be arrested and prosecuted,” NEMA said in its notice.

The plastic bag ban, which took effect in August 2017, was considered one of the toughest environmental laws in the world at the time.

It prohibited the use of plastic bags for both commercial and household purposes, with only a few exceptions for industrial packaging and garbage bin liners.

NEMA now insists that traders must use alternatives such as woven bags, cartons, or biodegradable packaging.

Those who still wish to manufacture or sell plastic packaging materials must first obtain a license under the new Management and Control of Plastic Packaging Regulations, 2024.

In addition, such materials must clearly display the names and contact details of both the manufacturer and user for easy monitoring.

Environmental experts have repeatedly warned that plastic pollution poses a serious threat to Kenya’s ecosystems.

The non-biodegradable materials block drainage systems, contribute to flooding, and endanger wildlife that mistake plastics for food.

NEMA assured Kenyans that the crackdown is meant to protect the environment and safeguard public health.

“We are committed to ensuring a clean, safe, and healthy environment for all. Compliance with the law is not optional but mandatory,” the agency stressed.