Senator Onyonka issues 7-day ultimatum to hospital over sewage pollution

Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka has given a hospital in Kisii County seven days to produce its environmental and health licenses or face legal action, following mounting complaints over raw sewage being discharged into rivers.

Speaking on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, Onyonka said the hospital, located in Sameta Mokwerero Ward, Bobasi Constituency, has been accused of releasing untreated human waste into streams relied on by residents for drinking and household use. The accusations have triggered public health fears, with multiple residents reporting waterborne disease outbreaks.

Sewage discharge claims

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Onyonka noted that residents had submitted video evidence and eyewitness testimonies of the hospital draining waste into nearby rivers. He expressed concern over the environmental impact and the health risks posed to the local population.

“Testimonies from locals indicate that families living near the hospital have reported an outbreak of waterborne diseases since the discharge began,” he said.

The senator further claimed that residents who raised complaints were silenced using police intimidation. “The proprietor of the facility reportedly uses police to threaten anyone who questions the situation,” he added.

Onyonka now demands that the hospital table three critical documents within a week: its NEMA license, a public health permit from the county government, and a Ministry of Health operational license.

He anchored his demands on Article 35 of the Constitution and the Access to Information Act, 2016, citing the public’s right to hold institutions accountable and access crucial regulatory information.

Legal action looms

The Senator warned that failure to complywould prompt legal proceedings. He also urged local authorities and regulators to act urgently to prevent further harm to residents.

He reminded the public that under the Public Health Act (Cap 242), sewage management is strictly regulated, and health facilities are expected to adhere to strict waste disposal procedures. “Hospital waste is classified as healthcare risk waste and must be handled by NEMA-approved collectors—not dumped into rivers,” he said.

Onyonka called on NEMA and relevant agencies to intervene decisively and restore public trust.