Nairobi County issues notice to Eastleigh traders over dumping
In the notice issued on Monday October 20, the county Chief Officer for Environment, Geroge Mosiria warned that traders and landlords who fail to comply with the directive will face penalties
Traders and property owners in Nairobi’s Eastleigh estate have been issued with a one-week notice to clean up drainage systems located within 10 metres of their premises.
Failure to adhere to the order, the Nairobi County government, has warned of stern penalties as part of the enforcement action.
In the notice issued on Monday October 20, the county Chief Officer for Environment, Geroge Mosiria warned that traders and landlords who fail to comply with the directive will face penalties as provided under the Nairobi City County Solid Waste Management Act, 2015.
He said the directive is part of the efforts by the county administration to curb environmental pollution and improve sanitation in the densely populated commercial hub.
Mosiria accused traders of turning drainage channels into dumping sites, leading to frequent blockages and flooding whenever it rains.
“To all business owners, landlords, and building owners whose properties are next to drainage systems within 10 meters of their premises, it is your responsibility to ensure that these drainage systems are clean,” read part of the notice.
He said that while the county has been conducting regular clean-up operations, however, some traders were frustrating the efforts through unlawful dumping.
“Drainage systems are not meant for dumping garbage, as is currently happening in Eastleigh and other parts of the city. "The 10-meter cleaning requirement around your premises is anchored in the Nairobi City County Solid Waste Management Act of 2015. We shall take enforcement action against those who fail to comply, even after being educated and made aware of the county’s environmental laws,” he added.
He announced that inspection teams will be in the area to monitor compliance and those found in violation of the city-by laws, risk closure of their premises, revocation of business permits, or legal prosecution under the environmental laws. A one-week notice has been issued for compliance.
According to the Nairobi by laws, those found guilty may be fined up to Ksh200,000 of dumping in illegal areas