Duale's 'garbage' comments miss the mark

Nairobi City County workers clean up Ngong River in Kibera during the 'Let the rivers flow' initiative on November 20, 2023.[File, Standard]

As global leaders gather in Baku for COP29, climate finance and environmental responsibility dominate the agenda. Kenya has positioned itself as a leader in adaptation efforts. However, Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has cast a shadow over this progress with divisive remarks that demean and alienate rather than inspire and unify.

Duale's controversial claim that "the middle class" is to blame for Nairobi River's pollution because "they have garbage," while informal settlers supposedly do not because "they eat everything," has sparked outrage. This is not merely an ill-considered comment; it reflects a troubling worldview that shifts blame based on social class.