Residents of Naivasha, Kenya, have escalated their campaign against a Chinese-owned quarrying company operating without proper licenses, citing severe air and noise pollution that has impacted nearby schools, homes, and businesses. Over 300 demonstrators, including parents from Longonot DEB Prima School and staff from Longonot Vista Resort, gathered near the facility on Moi South Lake Road, demanding immediate cessation of operations. The protest followed two months of unchecked quarrying activities, which residents claim have led to health complications, disrupted education, and financial losses. Caroline Wanjiku, a representative from the resort, stated that the company ignored orders from the Ministry of Mining and the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) to halt operations, calling the situation an 'impunity of the highest order.'
The conflict centers on the company’s alleged failure to comply with environmental laws, including the absence of public consultation before commencing operations. Mark Mwangi, a local resident, emphasized that the Environmental Management and Coordination Act mandates public participation prior to such projects, which he alleged was not conducted. Margaret Kusa, a parent at Longonot DEB Prima School, reported that students have experienced chest pains and that dust from the quarry has frequently disrupted classes. David Chege, a youth leader coordinating the protests, vowed to hold weekly demonstrations until the company is shut down, stating, 'We shall not get tired as we demand justice.'
A senior NEMA official, who requested anonymity, confirmed the company operates without licenses from NEMA or Nakuru County government. 'This company has been working illegally, they don’t have any licenses, and we have served them with stop-orders, but this has been ignored,' the official said. The authority has repeatedly issued directives to halt the activities, but the firm has continued, drawing criticism from both the public and regulatory bodies. The lack of compliance has intensified calls for stricter enforcement of environmental laws and accountability for foreign investors operating in Kenya.
The standoff underscores broader concerns about corporate accountability and environmental governance in Kenya. Residents argue that the company’s actions reflect a pattern of disregard for local regulations, raising questions about the effectiveness of oversight mechanisms. With protests showing no signs of abating, the situation highlights the tension between economic development and community welfare. Local leaders and environmental advocates are urging the government to intervene decisively, emphasizing that 'the government stamped its foot on this issue' to ensure compliance with the law. The outcome could set a precedent for how foreign entities are held accountable in Kenya’s regulatory framework.