The Ministry of Environment has identified 145 facilities along the Nairobi River basin that discharge industrial effluent, contributing to the river’s pollution. In addition, inconsistent garbage collection services and a lack of designated dumping sites have worsened the situation, especially in rural areas and communities along the river.
Much of the waste in the river is non-recyclable and includes materials like diapers and plastic bags. Many residents cannot afford garbage collection services, and when county services fail to reach their areas, they resort to harmful methods like dumping waste directly into the river or sewer lines.
Jamal Arnold, a member of the Pole Kijee community-based organisation, highlights the lack of awareness and responsibility as key factors in the pollution. He points out that despite subsidized garbage collection fees, many residents refuse to pay and dispose of their waste improperly, further polluting the environment.
Despite providing sacks for waste collection, Wendy Mwende from the same organization notes that many residents still throw their trash into sewer lines out of habit. The scarcity of designated dumping sites, especially in areas like Majengo, contributes to informal dumping and the spread of diseases, making it difficult to maintain cleanliness.
Anne Mburu, a resident of Majengo, shares her struggles with the lack of proper waste management. Her children’s frequent illnesses due to poor sanitation reflect the harsh realities of life in slums where access to healthcare and clean environments is limited, further compounded by the overflow of sewers and inadequate facilities.
