Kenya: NEMA serves Kangime dumpsite ultimatum to clear garbage
Owners of Kangemi dumpsite have two more days to clear the garbage, a direction by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) giving them a seven-day ultimatum.
This decision follows a series of complaints from residents regarding the environmental hazards posed by the site.
Concerns include foul smells, rodent infestations, and the potential for disease outbreaks such as cholera.
The dumpsite’s encroachment on a nearby memorial field has been a significant issue for the local community.
In response to the complaints, officials from NEMA, including Director of Enforcement Ayub Macharia and his deputy Salome Machua, conducted an inspection tour of the dumpsite.
During the visit, they engaged with the locals to discuss the issues.
The dumpsite owners defended their operations, citing the creation of job opportunities and income generation for the community.
They also claimed efforts had been made to address residents’ concerns by sorting organic and inorganic waste to mitigate foul odours.
However, NEMA has maintained its stance on the urgent need to clear the site to safeguard public health and the environment.