Civil society activists are concerned that the total ban on polythene carrier bags, also known as Kaveera, will ever be effectively enforced. The ban was recently passed by cabinet. But going by recent pronouncements, activists say it is difficult to see any commitment by government in upholding the ban.
A case in point is the latest cabinet ministers’ meeting which resolved to support the ban on polythene carrier bags.
In June the prime minister who is the head of government business put a halt on the enforcement of the Kavera burn whict attracted criticism from sections of society.
While, the head of Action Coalition on Climate Change a None-Governmental Organization, Enock Nimpamya has welcomed the move, it is with reservations.
Nimpamya says given the adverse environmental implications resulting from the use of polythene materials, a total ban on polythene bags is a good direction by government. However he is doubtful whether the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) can enforce it.