The Environment, Forestry and Mining Committee recently grilled Dr. Mamo Mamo, the Director-General of the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA). They wanted answers about the flooding and drainage issues that struck Nairobi following heavy rains last week.
Led by Chairperson Hon. Vincent Musyoka, the committee pressed Dr. Mamo about the city’s malfunctioning sewer system and why NEMA hasn’t ensured Nairobians are safe from environmental risks.
“NEMA can’t escape responsibility,” one lawmaker pointed out, highlighting how the agency approves illegal buildings yet fails to enforce regulations effectively.
Dr. Mamo acknowledged significant challenges. He noted the drainage system in Nairobi is outdated, dating back to the 1970s. Many informal settlements lack proper sewer lines, forcing waste into the Nairobi River. Additionally, the city’s waste disposal practices contribute to the river’s pollution.
Encroachments on riparian land are also a major concern. However, Dr. Mamo assured lawmakers that the Nairobi River Commission is collaborating with NEMA to address this issue.
Several committee members expressed frustration, urging NEMA to enhance its role in making Nairobi livable again. Hon. Joseph Emathe emphasized the urgent need for action against illegal constructions, particularly those built on riverbanks.
Hon. Wainaina reminisced about the ecological improvements during the tenure of the late Hon. John Michuki, underscoring a stark contrast with today’s polluted state of the Nairobi River. He urged NEMA to engage with all relevant stakeholders, including the Nairobi County Government, to clean up the river.
Eng. Festus Ng’eno, the PS in the State Department for Environment and Climate Change, agreed on the need for better staffing at NEMA to tackle these ongoing issues effectively.
This debate is part of a larger discussion about urbanization in Nairobi. As the city grows, the challenges of waste management and environmental protection become even more pressing. According to a recent study by the World Bank, urban areas in Kenya lose almost 20% of their GDP due to environmental degradation, underlining the urgency for efficient management systems.
With rising awareness and increasing public outcry on social media regarding the state of the river and urban areas, it seems the call for action is louder than ever. Nairobi residents are hoping for a concerted effort to restore their city’s environment before it’s too late.
