Kirinyaga MCAs summon NEMA, county officials over river pollution
By K24 Digital Reporter, October 8, 2025Pressure is mounting on authorities to act after the Kirinyaga County Assembly Committee on Environment and Natural Resources summoned officials from the County Department of Health over claims that an avocado factory is polluting River Murangu in Mutithi Ward.
The summons follows a public outcry from Rukanga residents who, through a petition to the County Assembly on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, accused the factory of discharging untreated waste into the river, a vital water source for hundreds of families.
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Committee Chairperson and Njukiini Ward MCA Timothy Kariuki said the committee will not tolerate attempts to downplay the crisis, warning that those responsible will face consequences.
“This is not a matter for negotiation. If the factory is found guilty of polluting River Murangu, we shall demand immediate closure until it complies with environmental standards,” said Kariuki.
“We have directed NEMA to appear before us on October 14, 2025, to give a full report, and we expect honesty, not excuses,” he added.
The issue has sparked outrage among Members of the County Assembly, who have accused some county officials of turning a blind eye to the suffering of residents.
Mutithi Ward MCA Jinaro Njamumo, whose ward is worst affected, condemned the factory for what he termed “corporate arrogance,” saying that the company had earlier denied Assembly members entry during an inspection visit.
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Residents have reported a foul odour from the river and stated that their livestock and crops are being affected. Nancy Wangui, one of the complainants, stated that she has suffered from allergic reactions due to the polluted air and can no longer use water from the river.
“Our napier grass has dried up, the water is blackish, and the smell is unbearable. We are living in fear, and no one seems to care,” she said.
The Committee has ordered an immediate joint inspection involving NEMA, the County Health Department, and environmental experts to be conducted before the next sitting.
Environment CECM
Environment CECM James Mutugi acknowledged the gravity of the matter but noted that regulation of liquid waste primarily falls under NEMA’s mandate. He, however, assured residents that his office will cooperate fully with investigations.
Health CECM Hon.George Karoki said the public health officers had stopped the operations of the plant until they comply with the required guidelines, which they did, but not fully, to the satisfaction of public health guidelines, stating that they are closely monitoring the situation, urging the residents to remain calm as the issue is being handled.
The County Assembly has warned that any official found complicit in concealing the pollution will be held accountable.
“Kirinyaga cannot become a dumping ground for profit-hungry investors. Protecting our people and environment is non-negotiable,” said Kariuki.