KEPRO and NECC Sign Landmark Agreement to Strengthen Environmental Sustainability in Kenya

The Kenya Extended Producer Responsibility Organization (KEPRO) and the National Environmental Complaints Committee (NECC) formalized their collaboration on Thursday 24th July 2025 through the signing of a MoU aimed at strengthening environmental protection efforts across the country.

In a significant step toward advancing environmental protection and accountability, the Kenya Extended Producer Responsibility Organization (KEPRO) and the National Environmental Complaints Committee (NECC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalize their collaboration. The partnership, announced during an official signing ceremony attended by KEPRO CEO James Odongo and NECC CEO Mary Njogu, aims to establish a robust framework for cooperation in promoting environmental sustainability across Kenya. The MoU was witnessed by NECC CEO Mary Njogu, Committee chairman Hon. Godana Doyo, Committee member Ernest Mutinda, and from KEPRO, CEO James Odongo, Faith Mwikali (Projects Officer), and Zacharia Wambugu (Membership Officer).

The MoU outlines key areas of collaboration between the two institutions, including environmental education, enforcement support, waste management, public awareness, and policy advocacy. KEPRO, as the leading Producer Responsibility Organization, is mandated to implement Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in Kenya ensuring that producers take responsibility for the post-consumer stage of their products. NECC, on the other hand, is a statutory body under the Ministry of Environment tasked with investigating environmental complaints and promoting compliance with environmental laws. The synergy between these mandates provides a unique opportunity to scale up both awareness and action in tackling pollution, illegal dumping, and poor waste handling practices.

This partnership is timely, as Kenya intensifies its efforts to align with global environmental goals, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and commitments under the Paris Climate Agreement. With rising concerns over plastic waste, climate change, and environmental degradation, the collaboration is expected to reinforce community-level engagement and improve enforcement mechanisms. By working together, KEPRO and NECC will enhance the reach of public education campaigns and streamline mechanisms for reporting and responding to environmental violations.

Speaking at the event, both CEOs emphasized the importance of multi-stakeholder partnerships in driving long-term change. “We recognize that lasting environmental impact is only possible through coordinated efforts,” noted KEPRO CEO James Odongo. NECC CEO Mary Njogu echoed this sentiment, adding that “this partnership will empower citizens and producers alike to play a more active role in protecting our environment.” Their shared vision reflects Kenya’s broader national development agenda, which places sustainability and green growth at its core.

The KEPRO–NECC partnership represents more than just a formal agreement; it signals a growing national resolve to pursue sustainable development through collaboration, innovation, and civic engagement. As both organizations move forward with a unified strategy, their efforts will play a critical role in reshaping Kenya’s environmental landscape pushing the nation closer to a cleaner, greener, and more resilient future.