Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has unveiled a new youth-led waste management programme aimed at cleaning up the city and restoring its image as one of Kenya’s most beautiful coastal destinations.

Speaking through his Facebook post on Sunday, October 26, 2025, the governor said the move marks a turning point in how Mombasa handles its long-standing garbage problem, which has drawn public complaints in recent months.

“Today, we begin a new chapter in keeping Mombasa clean, green and healthy,” Nassir said, noting that the county had listened to residents’ frustrations and was ready to act decisively.

Under the new plan, young people across the city will take the lead in daily garbage collection, routine clean-ups, and monthly fumigation exercises. The governor said this approach is not only about cleanliness but also about empowering the youth and giving them meaningful opportunities to contribute to the city’s development.

“In response to public concerns on waste, and to productively engage our youth, we have launched a youth-driven Waste Management Programme to lead daily collection, routine clean-ups and monthly fumigation across our city,” he stated.

The initiative is part of the county’s broader goals outlined in the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP) and the Annual Development Plan (ADP), which emphasise sustainability, youth empowerment, and public health.

According to Nassir, the programme is designed to make Mombasa cleaner, safer, and more liveable for all residents, while ensuring that waste management becomes a shared community responsibility.

“This initiative delivers on our commitments in the CIDP & ADP and creates a safer, cleaner environment for every resident,” he said, adding that public cooperation will be key in ensuring its success.

Mombasa, one of Kenya’s major tourist hubs, has faced rising concerns over poor waste disposal, with residents frequently raising alarms over uncollected garbage and blocked drainage systems.

Governor Nassir assured that his administration is determined to turn things around. “Mombasa must remain a city we are proud to call home,” he said.

The programme is expected to roll out immediately, with the first teams already deployed in key areas within the Central Business District and surrounding estates.