Environment Ministry Launches Campaign to Raise Awareness On Effects of Plastic Bags

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Federal government of Somalia’s Environment Ministry Sunday conducted an exercise to create awareness on the harmful effects of plastic bags.

Environment minister Khadija Mohamed Al-Makhzoumi said the three-day campaign conducted on the streets of Somalia’s capital Mogadishu was aimed at sensitizing the public against single-use plastic bags.

“We’re coming together as a community to protect our environment and build a sustainable future. Join us in saying NO to plastic bags and other single-use plastics! Let’s make a difference together,” the Minister said.

In February, Somalia announced the ban of single-use plastics, potentially boosting the growing campaign to limit the use of non-biodegradable packaging material in the war against global warming.

The Environment and Climate Change Ministry indicated that the country will stop single-use plastics from June 30, 2024, providing a five-month grace period for importers and users to adjust.

“All businesspeople engaged in bag importation, manufacturers, retailers and commercial establishments within the country are hereby notified that as of June 30, 2024, the importation and use of single-use bags shall be prohibited,” read a statement issued by the Ministry.

The ministry said the grace period should also give firms involved in the production or importation of plastics time “to explore environmentally friendly alternatives to plastic bags” and that it will work with stakeholders to identify options.