Tough Action Promised on Polluting Industries as Nairobi River Pollution Continues
The Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry, Hon. Aden Duale, addressed the National Assembly today, emphasizing the urgent need for stringent action against industries contributing to the pollution of the Nairobi River. His remarks came in response to inquiries from Ruaraka MP, Hon. T.J. Kajwang’, regarding ongoing contamination issues despite previous interventions.
During his presentation, CS Duale identified illegal effluent discharge, poor waste management, and encroachment on riparian lands as key factors exacerbating the river’s pollution. “The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has mapped out 145 facilities discharging waste into the river, with 101 of these having compliance issues,” he stated. He emphasized that non-compliant facilities must treat their wastewater according to national standards or face closure.
Duale assured lawmakers of NEMA’s commitment to enforcing environmental laws, stating, “We have issued restoration orders, and compliance is non-negotiable.” He also highlighted the President’s Climate Resilience Service Programme (Climate WorX), which aims to engage youth in environmental restoration initiatives, with 20,000 young people already involved.
In response to concerns about illegal dumping, particularly at the notorious Dandora dump site, CS Duale acknowledged the challenges but reaffirmed that NEMA is collaborating closely with the Nairobi County Government to address the issue. “Waste management is a devolved function, and we are working with county authorities to ensure sustainable practices,” he explained.
Duale mentioned several illegal dump sites that have already been shut down, including locations in Starehe and Kamukunji Sub-Counties, as part of ongoing efforts to tackle urban waste management challenges.
The Cabinet Secretary concluded with a firm commitment: “Restoration of the Nairobi River is a top priority for this government, and we are dedicated to ensuring clean, safe, and healthy ecosystems for all citizens.”
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