Speaker: Atti Pye, Wakijani Consultants
Atti Pye’s presentation offered an insightful overview of sustainability efforts in Kwale County, emphasizing the region’s heavy reliance on tourism, which accounts for approximately 70% of its income, and its rich biodiversity. He highlighted a growing interest in eco-certification across the coastal hospitality sector, noting that six out of thirteen hotels in the area are now officially certified, with four holding international eco-tourism certifications.
Key defining practices driving these certifications include the implementation of sustainable waste management systems, such as recycling, glass repurposing, and composting, alongside farm-to-fork organic farming, sustainable seafood sourcing, and active corporate environmental and social responsibility initiatives like beach cleanups.
Among the defining innovations is the creative use of waste materials: glass bottles are being repurposed for decoration and construction, single-use plastics are being reused as cushion stuffing, and organic waste is converted into compost. Notably, waste is separated into an impressive fourteen different categories, illustrating the sector’s commitment to responsible waste management.
Atti also noted ongoing collaboration with the County Government of Kwale on several initiatives aimed at ecosystem protection and community well-being. He emphasized sustainability as a key enabler and driver of employment opportunities in the county.
Despite these positive developments, he acknowledged the continued challenges that threaten long-term sustainability, including destructive fishing practices, illegal wildlife trade, persistent waste management issues, and habitat loss.