This archive report was first published on 27 August 2019.
The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has taken drastic measures to protect the environment in Nairobi by shutting down the Sameer Imara Daima yogurt factory in Industrial Area indefinitely.
The factory was closed on August 27, 2019 due to the company's alleged discharging of untreated effluent into Nairobi Sewer, resulting in the pollution of the Nairobi River.
According to NEMA, the Cooperation Manager of the factory has also been arrested and is expected to be arraigned in court over failing to ensure that the proper standards were adhered to during the dumping of waste.
Another company, Synresins, a chemical firm in Industrial Area, has also fallen victim to NEMA's crackdown. The company's CEO and Managing Director are in lawful custody after being arrested for discharging hazardous waste directly into sewer and environment.
NEMA has vowed to spread the exercise to any other companies going against the standards agreed upon by the environment rules and regulations.
“Nema has identified 102 discharge points along Nairobi River. Out of inspections conducted, 50% of firms have complied. Ongoing inspections are to ensure remaining have complied as per Water Quality Regulation 2006 or be shut & prosecuted,” Ag. DG Mamo B. Mamo divulged.
