Residents and leaders of Murang’a County have raised alarm over what they describe as reckless dumping of waste by some avocado processing factories in Kibuu and Ng’araria villages, Kandara constituency.
The waste, allegedly discarded in open fields without fencing or warning signs, has become a major health and environmental hazard with locals reporting unbearable stench, pollution and increased cases of respiratory complications.
The situation has sparked wider concerns about the regulation of industries in Murang’a County, with critics questioning whether environmental assessments are being followed and monitored effectively.
Speaking during an economic empowerment forum in a public meeting convened in Kibuu, the residents expressed fear that the situation could worsen if urgent action was not taken.
Notably waves of stench kept sweeping through forcing the residents and leaders alike to constantly cover their noses.
Some left the venue with running noses and flu-like symptoms further fueling concerns about the waste’s impact on health.
“The smell is choking, and when the wind blows towards our homes, we can’t even breathe properly. My children have been suffering from constant flu and chest problem because of inhaling this polluted air,” said Jane Njeri, a mother of three.
“We are not against development but let the factories operate responsibly because as much as we want jobs and growth, it should not be at the expense of our children’s health,” she adds.
Others noted that the heaps of waste attract flies and stray animals, exposing the community to diseases.
“We pass through these dumpsites every day, yet there are no warning signs or barriers. Children play nearby and it is dangerous,” said Peter Mwangi, a boda boda rider from Ng’araria.
“I even lost my sense of smell due to years of exposure to this stench and polluted air,” he added.
Local leaders joined the residents in condemning the factories, accusing them of violating environmental laws.
Murang’a Woman Representative Betty Maina said the safety of Murang’a people must come first.
“We cannot watch silently as our people suffer and I will push this matter with the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and the Ministry of Environment until the residents of Kandara are safe,” she said.
“We will immediately initiate talks with the companies in question as our duty is to protect the health and safety of residents, and we will not rest until there is compliance with environmental regulations,” she added.
Maragua MP Mary Wamaua promised to lobby Parliament to ensure stricter penalties for industries that pollute.
“Factories bring jobs, yes, but no development is worth risking people’s lives and we will not rest until this is corrected,” she noted.
“We will stand with the residents of Kibuu and Ng’araria and will ensure that any factory found guilty of illegal dumping faces the law,” she added
The leaders further pressed NEMA to move quickly and ensure factories adhere strictly to waste disposal laws.
“Environmental degradation is not just about bad smell. It is about lives. We are urging NEMA to be firm because what is happening here is unacceptable,” said Kangema Member of Parliament Peter Kihungi
The residents now want the waste either recycled properly or disposed of in designated facilities, away from human settlements.
KNA team walked through the area revealing numerous open holes where the waste is discarded openly with no fencing or warning signs to keep away children, livestock or passersby.
By Florence Kinyua
