The Mountain Journal
The authorities came face to face with the effects of dumping of avocado waste in unused quarry mines and open grounds in parts of Murang’a, which forced hundreds of residents to protest.
During the visit NEMA was accused of failing to act as the environmental pollution happened under its watch,a trend that has led to communities living in the affected localities to raise unending alarm following the compromise of the environment.
The residents in Kandara and Maragua recounts how their conditions have been affected after tonnes of raw green waste are emptied daily with impunity.
The affected areas include homes, schools, public utility areas among other areas.
The Senate Environmental Committee noted the public outcry on dumping of avocado waste dumped hazardously opposite Peter Kariuki Primary and PK Secondary Schools, and at the quarry sites area near Triple A Growers in Kimorori.
In the visit the senate environmental committee chaired by Mohammed Faki demanded licenses, approvals, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reports, waste management plans and compliance certificates issued to avocado processors involved in the generation, transportation and disposal of the waste in Maragua and Kandara.
The committee was accompanied by the Cabinet Secretary for Environment Ms Deborah Baraza toured the affected localities following a statement sought by Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu following the increased outcry from the locals.
A month ago, Nyutu had raised concerns over the disposal of large quantities of sludge and waste in open areas near schools, homes, farms and water sources, noting that the practice poses serious environmental, public health and safety risks to residents.
Faki urged the avocado companies to work with surrounding communities through public sensitisation, meaningful Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives and responsible environmental practices.
“ They should diversify and invest in technologies that can convert avocado waste into useful end products, create jobs, and shun compromising human life, public health or our environment,” said Mohammed.
Ms Barasa said there was a need to promote a clean and healthy environment, noting that initiatives that transform avocado waste into valuable fertilizer can contribute to environmental conservation, value addition and job creation.
“ I welcome such initiatives, stressing that turning avocado waste into useful products could support environmental conservation, value addition and job creation,” she said.
The team also visited an agriculture plant where they witnessed efforts to recycle avocado waste into manure and charcoal.