Environment: Man who kicked off plastic ban campaign

Mr James Wakibia started campaigning for the ban of plastic bags almost eight years ago

NAKURU, KENYA: What started as a single click to document the hazards of plastic bags to filing petitions and finally to rigorous social media campaigns advocating their ban has finally brought results for a Nakuru environmentalist.

Mr James Wakibia, who doubles up as a photographer, started campaigning for the ban of plastic bags almost eight years ago while armed with only a camera and banners.

"Photos make people see, and by documenting the hazards of discarded polythene bags to the public, I managed to attract the attention of the public, especially on social media where the campaign received massive support. It was a wake-up call", Mr Wakibia said.

On his social media pages, pictures of blocked drains, plastics on dumping sites, to heaps of plastic bags choking recreational facilities and game reserves showcase the reality of the effects of plastics on the environment.

"Although it has not been a smooth journey, I feel I played a role towards the ban on plastic bags in the country. I have done a lot of street photography highlighting the dangers and encouraging people to support the ban," said Wakibia.

The #IsupportbanplasticKE social media campaign, which caused a stir attracting environmentalists across the country, started with Wakibia photographing those supporting the movement while holding the banner.