Residents raise alarm over mound of garbage
As Kenyans prepare to mark World Environment Day on June 5, residents of Dagoretti North constituency have nothing to smile about as they are staring at a looming public health crisis following illegal dumping of solid waste.
According to them, the situation has deteriorated due to criminal gangs that have found a safe haven in the illegal dumpsites at Riruta area of Kawangware in Nairobi, leading to a rise in cases of mugging and general insecurity.
The illegal dumping sites situated along two public roads in a densely populated residential area, have become breeding grounds for disease and pose significant risks to the community.
Area MP Beatrice Elachi has in the past accused landlords of failing to ensure garbage collected from their premises is dumped in designated areas.
“Who protects these cartels who have converted public roads into illegal dumping sites?” a resident only identified as Meshack asked.
Compounding the issue is the apparent negligence and alleged corruption that has hindered efforts to address the problem. Locals say both the police and officials from the National Environment Management Authority have turned a blind eye, leaving the community feeling abandoned and unheard.
For an astonishing 15 years, residents said they have been forced to deal with the noxious stench and unsightly mountains of waste that continue to accumulate. Further they claimed lack of action from Nairobi county officials is disheartening. They have since called on Governor Johnson Sakaja to prioritise the health, safety, and well being of the people he is entrusted to serve. “The people of Dagoretti North deserve a safe living environment. It is crucial for those in power to rise to the occasion and address this pressing issue promptly,” Judy Nyawira, a resident said.
