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Chemicals regulations are critical in provision of framework for sustainable management of chemicals in Kenya.

This includes labelling, classification, registration, manufacture, storage, transport and distribution. Chemicals regulations are critical in provision of framework for sustainable management of chemicals in Kenya. This includes labelling, classification, registration, manufacture, storage, transport and distribution. 

Environment and Forestry PS, Mr. Ali Noor Mohamed (C), NEMA’s Deputy Director Enforcement, Ms. Salome Machua (R ), NEMA’s Deputy Director Compliance, Mr. Zephania Ouma during the meeting at Boma Hotel [PHOTO: S. GITAU/NEMA]

NEMA held a national validation meeting of the draft toxic and hazardous chemicals and materials management regulations 2018 at Boma Hotel on 6th February 2019.The meeting attracted over 100 stakeholders from manufacturing sector, importers, users and even distributors from all corners of the Kenya.

Subsequent stakeholders meeting have been held in Nakuru, Thika, Mombasa, Kisumu, Kakamega and Eldoret.

The chief guest during the meeting was Environment and Forestry PS, Mr. Ali Noor Mohamed.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Ali noted that Sound chemicals management and the related wastes, is essential for the environmental, social and economic aspects of sustainable development.  The PS added that there is need to integrate sound management of chemicals into environment, public health and economic development policy.

Environment and Forestry PS, Mr. Ali Noor Mohamed, CBS making his remarks during the chemicals validation meeting [PHOTO: S. IRUNGU/NEMA]

During the meeting, NEMA Director General Prof Geoffrey Wahungu was represented by NEMA’s Deputy Director Enforcement, Ms. Salome Machua. The DG remarked that chemicals are an integral part of our daily life. They contribute positively to human well-being, if managed well. On the other hand, Prof. Wahungu warned that unsound management of chemicals and waste has serious negative impacts on sustainable development.

The regulations are being developed in line with Sections 92 and 147 of Environmental Management and Coordination Act (EMCA) which gives powers Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Forestry to make a regulation. After capturing all the views of the stakeholders, the developed regulation will then be cascaded to the ministry from which it will undergo the process of gazettement. 

The Authority is working closely with the Ministry to ensure the draft regulation is gazetted and implemented to protect Kenyans from hazards and exposure to risks caused by toxic and hazardous chemicals and materials.