By Mayak Majak Madit Tokjok
The management of Rumbek Municipality has banned the use of plastic containers and polythene bags for selling various goods, including milk, cooking oil, alcohol, sugar, and other products, citing concerns over public health and environmental safety.
The order was announced on Monday during its official launch by Mabeny Malual Kodi, the Deputy Mayor of Rumbek Municipality, who said the restrictions were intended to protect human health, domestic animals, and the environment.
Kodi said the ban covers black, white, and green polythene bags, warning that discarded plastic materials pose a danger to livestock, particularly goats and sheep, which may accidentally consume them.
Under the new directive, milk sellers are expected to use suitable containers, such as plastic or glass jugs brought by customers, while polythene bags are to be replaced with cloth bags and other approved alternatives.
Kodi expressed concern that some containers and plastic materials collected from dumping sites and hospitals by street children were reportedly being resold to milk and cooking oil vendors for commercial use.
He warned that the reuse of such materials under unhygienic conditions could expose consumers to serious health risks, stressing the need for proper handling, storage, and packaging of food products.
The Deputy Mayor said municipal authorities would supervise the implementation of the order and take legal action against businesses that fail to comply.
According to Kodi, violators could be referred to court and face a fine of 150 South Sudanese pounds, imprisonment, or both, as stated in the announcement.
He also warned members of the business community against rejecting small-denomination banknotes of 5, 10, and 20 South Sudanese pounds.
He said traders who refuse to accept the notes would be taken to court for legal proceedings, adding that the currency is legal tender throughout South Sudan.
Meanwhile, Gabriel Maker Aru, the Lakes State Director of Public Health, appealed to residents to support the initiative, emphasizing that protecting human life and livestock remains an important responsibility of the state government.
Aru said public health protection was a key priority for the municipal council and urged residents and traders to cooperate with the authorities in maintaining a clean and safe urban environment.
He reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to its slogan, “Keep Rumbek Town Clean and Green,” calling on the public to play an active role in promoting sanitation and environmental protection.
The municipality’s directive is aimed at improving public health, reducing environmental pollution, and protecting livestock from the dangers associated with discarded plastic materials.
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