Residents of Amazon and Mandizini informal settlements in Mombasa County have raised concern over an ongoing construction project that they say has blocked community toilet drainage systems and ocean water channels, resulting in flooding in homes during high tide.
The residents claimed the project commenced without public participation and has caused health and sanitation challenges in the densely populated area.
Veronica Maringa, a resident of Mandizini, said residents have been left in the dark about the nature and impact of the project.
“We are facing serious problems. The construction is creeping close to our houses, and no one has informed us about its purpose or its effects on our community,” she said.
Photos and captions by Andrew Hinga
Kombora Shume, from the neighbouring Amazon village, said the blockage of community toilets has created a public health risk.
“Our toilets have been blocked and waste is now flowing back into our homes. Last night, water from the ocean entered several houses because the ocean water channel was sealed. Children missed school because their books and uniforms were soaked,” he said, adding that four communal latrines had been rendered unusable.
Mandizini Village Elder Ibrahim Mwinyi called for the inclusion of residents in project planning and implementation.
“We are not opposed to development, but we must be informed through public participation. We need to know what the project is about and how it will affect us. The secrecy surrounding it is causing fear and anxiety,” he said.
Ruki Peter, a Human Rights Activist said the construction has disrupted sewage systems that channel waste from the community toilets to the ocean.
“For about two weeks now, residents have been unable to use the toilets. This raises the risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera and typhoid. The blocked waterways also cause seawater to flood homes during high tide, disrupting their lives and destroying property,” he said.
He urged the county government to consider including Amazon and Mandizini residents in the Ardhi Fund initiative, which aims to promote equitable land access, housing, and documentation for informal settlements.
Mary Mutunga, the Vice Chairperson Haki na Amani Human Rights and peace makers Mombasa, also appealed to county authorities to intervene.
“These residents are Kenyans who deserve dignity and justice. The government should ensure they live in a safe and healthy environment,” she said.
By Sitati Reagan and Hassan Bahati
