Kiambu County Department for Water, Environment and Natural Resources has finalised a review of its proposed Quarry Bill 2026, which seeks to tighten the regulatory framework for the quarrying sector.
This followed a review exercise, which concluded on Tuesday, November 10, bringing together stakeholders drawn from the county, Anglican Development Services Mt Kenya East, and Welthungerhilfe – a German non-profit organisation.
The proposed legislation seeks to address safety concerns, environmental degradation and accountability in quarry operations through a structured licensing system, clear operational requirements and rehabilitation measures.
Since November 3, stakeholders have examined provisions governing the Quarrying Management Committee, environmental and social safeguards, licensing procedures, quarrying associations and regulation of quarrying sites and operating hours.
The Bill also categorises quarries into large-scale, medium-scale, small-scale, borrow pits and artisanal operations, recognising the different capacities and responsibilities of operators. It further outlines applicable fees, including application, site inspection and noise permit charges.
Speaking during an earlier stakeholder engagement, County Executive Committee Member (CEC) for Water, Environment and Natural Resources, David Kuria, underscored the importance of regulating the sector, particularly to ensure responsible quarry operations, worker safety, and environmental protection.
“A well-crafted quarrying law will protect our environment, safeguard communities and water sources, and promote responsible, sustainable resource use for a better Kiambu,” CEC Kuria added.
The proposed legislation comes against the backdrop of concerns over illegal quarrying and unsafe excavation sites, particularly in areas such as Kijabe, Kinale, Juja and Thika, where quarrying activities are prevalent.
In July this year, CEC Kuria led an impromptu inspection of illegal quarrying sites in Kijabe after operators defied a stop order and continued excavation. He was accompanied by Chief Officer Zachaeus Okoth, ward administrators, environmental officers and county enforcement officers.
“Kijabe, an area that has previously experienced landslides, is environmentally fragile and unsuitable for unregulated quarrying. Illegal excavation near homesteads also poses significant risks, including land instability, damage to property and threats to public safety,” he emphasised.
The CECM warned that anyone found continuing with the illegal quarrying activities will be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The reviewed Bill will now undergo legal drafting before submission to the County Executive for approval and subsequent consideration by the County Assembly, where Kiambu residents will have an opportunity to participate before its eventual enactment.
By Rose Muthoni and Grace Naishoo
