The Republic of Kenya's Ministry of Environment and Forestry outlines its "Implementation Plan for the Ban of Single Use Plastics in Protected Areas," aimed at mitigating plastic pollution, particularly in conservation zones. Recognizing the detrimental effects of single use plastics (SUPs) on the environment, the government has initiated a comprehensive strategy following previous successful bans on polythene bags. Key components of the action plan include promoting public awareness, providing incentives for alternative materials, and implementing strict regulations to prohibit SUPs in protected areas such as national parks, beaches, and forests. Categories identified as single use plastics include PET bottles, cutlery, and various packaging materials. Proposed alternatives involve reusable items like glass bottles and eco-friendly utensils. The plan delineates responsibilities among relevant ministries and stakeholders, highlighting collaborative efforts for public education, enforcement of the ban, and establishment of waste management initiatives. Ultimately, the objective is to enhance the conservation of Kenya's natural resources while promoting sustainable practices across the private sector and communities.

The U.S. Agency for International Development Kenya and East Africa (USAID/KEA) issued a Request for Information (RFI) to gather innovative ideas for addressing ocean plastic pollution in Kenya. The RFI, designated 72061521RFI000004, seeks responses from Kenyan organizations to inform the anticipated design of a new project valued at approximately $1,000,000, running from January 2022 to January 2025. It targets solutions led by local women, youth, and disadvantaged communities aligned with Kenya's Country Development Strategy. The initiative follows the U.S. Save Our Seas 2.0 Act, emphasizing a multi-sector approach to improve waste management and establish a circular economy. Interested organizations are asked to provide contact details, technical approaches to combat plastic pollution, existing partnerships, and their organizational capacity in managing donor-funded projects. The submission deadline is September 27, 2021, with responses to be sent via email. This RFI is an information-gathering exercise, without commitment for funding or proposals at this stage, underscoring the strategic importance of local engagement in environmental challenges.