Kenyans have been reminded that littering or spitting in public spaces in Nairobi’s central business district will no longer be tolerated, with offenders facing arrest and prosecution under the capital city’s by-laws.

The Nairobi County government issued the warning as it officially started installing new dustbins across the city centre, with full coverage expected within the next week.

The initiative follows what the county described as “the unfortunate theft of previously installed bins”, which had hampered the city’s efforts to maintain proper sanitation and order.

“These dustbins belong to the people of Nairobi, and it is our collective responsibility to protect them from vandalism, particularly by individuals who steal and sell public property to scrap metal dealers,” said Environment Chief Officer Geoffrey Mosiria.

To prevent vandalism and theft, Mosiria said officers would be deployed to guard the dustbins day and night.

He said, “Anyone found littering or spitting in public spaces will face arrest and prosecution, in line with existing county by-laws”.

People who spit phlegm on the ground instead of using a handkerchief or tissue would not be spared, he warned.

“Such behaviour is both unhygienic and unacceptable in a modern, clean city,” he said.

On the city’s new bins, Mosiria clarified that they are meant strictly for pedestrians and not for hawkers, vendors or business owners.

“Anyone found disposing of commercial waste in these public bins will also be arrested and prosecuted, as this creates illegal dumping sites and undermines our efforts to keep the city clean,” he warned.

Essential step

He urged Nairobi residents and visitors to take pride in protecting and maintaining public assets.

“Let us embrace responsible waste management and reject any form of misuse or impunity. Together, let’s keep Nairobi clean, orderly, and dignified,” he said.

Last year, the Nairobi County Assembly passed a motion requiring all businesses to instal dustbins on their premises.

The measure, championed by Nairobi West MCA Rex Omolleh, aimed to tackle litter in public spaces and foster a cleaner urban environment.

“This is a straightforward but essential step,” Omolleh said, urging business owners to comply.