Murang’a Residents Protest Hazardous Dumping by Avocado Factories

Key Highlights

• Murang’a residents protest reckless dumping of avocado factory waste in Kandara.
• Locals report choking stench, pollution, and rising respiratory illnesses.
• Leaders demand urgent action from NEMA and stricter penalties for polluters.
• Waste dumped in open fields without fencing, posing danger to children and livestock.
• MPs and Woman Rep vow to lobby for tougher laws and immediate compliance.

Residents and leaders in Murang’a County have raised alarm over what they describe as reckless waste disposal by avocado processing factories in Kibuu and Ng’araria villages, Kandara Constituency.

The factories are accused of discarding waste in open fields without fences or warning signs, creating what locals say is a major health and environmental hazard.

Community members report unbearable stench, polluted air, and increased cases of respiratory illnesses.

During a public forum in Kibuu, residents said the situation has disrupted daily life, with many forced to cover their noses due to the stench.

Some left the meeting with flu-like symptoms, fueling fears over long-term health risks.

“The smell is choking, and when the wind blows towards our homes, we can’t even breathe properly,” said Jane Njeri, a mother of three.

“We are not against development, but it should not be at the expense of our children’s health.”

Others said the waste attracts flies and stray animals, with children exposed to danger while playing near the dumpsites.

Local leaders joined residents in condemning the factories, accusing them of flouting environmental laws.

Murang’a Woman Representative Betty Maina vowed to escalate the issue with the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and the Ministry of Environment.

“We cannot watch silently as our people suffer. We will not rest until there is compliance with environmental regulations,” Betty said.

Maragua MP Mary Wamaua pledged to lobby Parliament for stricter penalties, insisting that no development is worth endangering lives.

Kangema MP Peter Kihungi also urged NEMA to act firmly, saying environmental degradation must not be tolerated.

Residents are now demanding that the waste be recycled or properly disposed of in designated facilities far from settlements.