NEMA Gives Sakaja Deadline to Clear Garbage Dumped Outside Kenya Power Offices
The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has issued a strict order to the Nairobi City County Government, demanding the immediate removal of garbage dumped outside Kenya Power’s offices in Nairobi.
On Tuesday, February 25, NEMA officials emphasized that the site outside Kenya Power’s offices was not an authorized waste disposal area. This directive follows an ongoing dispute between Governor Johnson Sakaja’s administration and the power company over unsettled bills amounting to billions of shillings.
“We are directing Nairobi City County to clear the garbage from this location immediately. This is not a designated dumping site, and we do not want the waste here,” a NEMA official stated firmly.
Concerns Over Pollution and Public Health
NEMA officials raised concerns over the negative environmental impact caused by the garbage, highlighting that the foul smell was affecting not just Kenya Power employees but also residents and businesses in the surrounding area.
“The stench from the garbage does not recognize boundaries. There are residential homes, restaurants, hotels, and various business establishments in this area. Regardless of the ongoing conflict, innocent parties who have nothing to do with this standoff are suffering,” the official added.
Nairobi County Accused of Retaliation
The dispute escalated after garbage trucks, allegedly from Nairobi County, were seen blocking access to Stima Plaza—the headquarters of Kenya Power—on Monday, February 24. Photos and videos captured by Kenyans.co.ke showed large piles of waste dumped at the entrance, obstructing movement into the building.
Adding to the chaos, Kenya Power’s management confirmed that several of the company’s vehicles had been clamped by county government officials over claims of unpaid parking fees. The power company described the incident as a retaliatory move by the county government.
Reports indicate that the standoff began after Nairobi County allegedly blocked a sewer line, causing raw waste to spill into Kenya Power’s premises. This act was said to be in response to Kenya Power disconnecting electricity supply to county government offices due to an outstanding debt. However, Nairobi County’s Finance Director has disputed claims that the county owes Ksh3 billion in unpaid electricity bills, arguing that the figures are exaggerated.
NEMA Issues Additional Directives
Besides ordering the removal of the garbage, NEMA issued additional directives to Nairobi County, including ensuring that garbage trucks are properly covered when transporting waste. Officials criticized the county for using open trucks, which allow waste to be blown onto the streets, creating further environmental pollution.
“Garbage should be transported in covered trucks to prevent waste from being scattered across the city. The current practice of using open trucks is unacceptable and must stop immediately,” NEMA declared.
Furthermore, NEMA reminded Nairobi County that it must obtain the necessary waste management licenses from the agency as required by law.
This ongoing dispute between Nairobi County and Kenya Power has now caught the attention of environmental authorities, with NEMA making it clear that it will not tolerate any further pollution caused by the standoff.
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