Somalia faces significant challenges in enforcing its ban on single-use plastic bags, despite the law being passed earlier this year.
The ban, delayed until October due to economic difficulties, has yet to curb the widespread use of plastic in markets across Mogadishu.
Grocer Abdikarim Hassan explained, “We use these bags because they are cheap and people can afford them.”
Alternatives like paper bags are four times more expensive, making them unaffordable for many.
With over half of Somalia’s population living below the poverty line, affordable replacements for plastic bags remain scarce.
Shamso Muqtar, a vegetable vendor, said, “We don’t have an affordable alternative to replace plastic bags.”
The government has allowed traders to sell off existing plastic stock before the ban fully takes effect.
Garad Abdullahi Ali from the Ministry of Environment said, “They can continue selling until their stock runs out.”
While some businesses, particularly supermarkets and boutiques, have embraced the ban, volunteers like Abdisatar Arabow Ibrahim emphasize the importance of compliance.
“People must comply to protect the environment and future generations,” he said.
As plastic production continues to rise globally, Somalia’s struggle highlights the need for more practical solutions to tackle plastic waste.
