This archive report was first published on 8 August 2019.
Published on August 8, 2019, residents of Karima ward in Othaya Constituency have rejected plans by the Nyeri County Government to dump garbage near their homes.
More than 200 residents demonstrated against the plan, citing health concerns and lack of public participation. The county government had ordered all garbage collected in Nyeri Town sub-county to be dumped in Karatina and Othaya towns' dumpsites.
Area MCA Reuben Kabera called for an investigation by the National Environmental Management Agency, citing the area's high water table and dense population. He warned that locals would remain vigilant and not allow any disposal at the site.
Water and Sanitation Executive Frederick Kinyua said the county was still looking for an alternative dumping site, undertaking a survey to improve their content.
Residents, including Alice Muraya, expressed concerns about the health impacts of the dumpsite, with her children suffering from asthma and other respiratory diseases.
