Kisii County has opened a new park as part of efforts to create cleaner and greener public spaces while marking World Cleanup Day 2026.

The event, held in Kisii on Sunday, brought together county officials, environmental agencies and residents to celebrate efforts aimed at improving the county’s environment.

Governor Paul Simba Arati said the occasion marked an important step in the county’s efforts to transform waste sites into useful public spaces.

“From green places to green grass and clean,” Arati said, describing the county’s vision for a cleaner Kisii.

He said the day marked the closure of a dumpsite and the opening of a park, signalling the beginning of a journey towards genuine and sustainable waste management.

Arati thanked the United Nations, the national government and the Ministry of Environment for selecting Kisii to host the World Cleanup Day celebrations.

He said Kisii currently deals with about 2,000 tonnes of waste every day, making sustainable waste management necessary for the county.

UN-Habitat Director Ishaku Maitumbi said Kisii residents should continue viewing the city as one unit when dealing with cleanliness and environmental issues.

Maitumbi said better waste management would improve the quality of life and health of people in Kisii and other parts of the country.

NEMA Director General Dr Mamo B Mamo congratulated Governor Arati for bringing different groups together in efforts to improve the county’s environment.

Dr Mamo said Kisii was becoming a modern county in sustainable waste management and environmental conservation.

He also praised the Green Army for their role in ensuring that Kisii remains clean and protecting the environment.