TRADE AND RECYCLING OF URBAN INORGANIC SOLID WASTE IN NAIROBI 193
Using a crude estimate of 2,000 pickers and average amounts separated per day as
those interviewed provided, the average amount of plastics separated per day at the
dump would be 9,000 kg (approximately 1 ton) while that of paper would be 4,000 kg
(approximately ½ ton). Informal dumps are not only smaller in surface area but also
harbour a much smaller and more scattered population of waste pickers The volumes
separated are as such even more difficult to estimate.
In the small-scale enterprise sector, the myriad of machinery and equipment used makes
it difficult to design standard devices for use in all the sub-sectors There are no laws,
regulations or even advice requiring the use of protective devices. Artisans are left to
discern for themselves what is dangerous or what is not and what measures to institute.
Kamukunji is in common day language in Nairobi known as ‘clang clang’ in reference
to the constant loud sharp sounds resonating from the persistent hammering of
metallic objects into desired shapes and sizes. The artisans are also tightly packed in
the muddy/dusty^32 uneven space available, which is also used as the storage and
display area. Each metal worker occupies an area of about 6.2 m^2 on which to perform
all the necessary activities. The artisans do not use any protective gear like earmuffs,
gloves or eye protection to avoid ‘welding eyes’ and have to purchase medical care
privately in times of illness. Some accidents have occurred for instance during the
cleaning of drums previously used for storage of ‘poison’ (toxic chemicals) resulting
in ‘deep hard- to- heal’ chemical burns. The only recourse for meeting the usually high
medical bills in such instances is ‘harambee’, where metal workers pool together the
funds required, to access treatment. The jua kali recycling sector is therefore a ‘work
at your own risk’ trade.
This notwithstanding, health issues are not a big concern according to the KJKA secre-
tary, as the artisans ‘are used’ to the noise and all other harmful occupational condi-
tions under which they work. What was of concern and thus recently resolved were
the environmental and poor sanitary conditions especially in relation to human
conveniences in the grounds. The association recently petitioned the NCC for a more
constant and regular supply of water and also privatised the only toilet in the area.
They also requested the government to confirm their occupation and use of the area.
Approval was received through a title deed issued to KJKA
For large-scale waste reprocessing companies, it is required by industrial law in Kenya
that factory workers, especially those handling harmful or dangerous equipment, be
provided with the necessary protective attire, and that other safety measures are put in
place. These are stipulated under the in the Ministry of Labour’s labour standards,
health and safety regulations, which are implemented by the Inspectorate department.
However, they have not been adequately enforced. In large-scale recycling units, job
- Depending on season.