Kwale County public health officials have issued a 28-day statutory notice to a poultry farm in Kiteje village in Matuga Sub-County, directing its management to address persistent foul odours and a fly infestation that residents say have affected their health and livelihoods.
Matuga Public Health Officer Vincent Mosomi said the county government intervened following a petition from residents, who complained about odour and flies emanating from the poultry project.
“We conducted an inspection and engaged both the community and the investor before issuing a statutory notice requiring corrective measures within 28 days,” said Mosomi.
He noted that the farm, which houses about 9,000 laying hens, faces challenges related to the handling and storage of poultry manure, adding that flies pose a public health risk as they can transmit diseases such as cholera and other gastrointestinal infections.
Mosomi said the county health department had advised the investor to adopt sustainable waste-management practices, including exploring the conversion of poultry waste into biogas, while implementing immediate measures to control odor and flies.
Residents welcomed the intervention, saying the problem had persisted for nearly two years and affected households, food vendors and other businesses in the area.
They expressed hope that the measures ordered by the county government would provide a lasting solution.
“The smell has been affecting us for a long time. We cannot sit comfortably outside our homes, and the flies are a constant nuisance,” said Mwaiga Hamisi Mafutu, a resident of Kiteje village.
Another resident, Sophia Hamisi Mafutu, said the infestation had affected food vendors and households in the area.
“The flies get into food and drinks, making it difficult for businesses to operate normally. We hope the measures being taken will provide a lasting solution,” she said.
The poultry farm management acknowledged the complaints and said it had already initiated measures to improve manure management.
Farm supervisor Abdulhalim Bangushi said the company was treating manure using sawdust and other recommended products to reduce odour and was working closely with experts and county health officials to address the problem.
Bangushi affirmed the farm’s commitment to complying with the recommendations and maintaining good relations with the surrounding community.
The case highlights the need to balance agricultural investment with environmental health concerns, even as rural communities continue to experience economic growth and development.
By Chari Suche
