Residents of Bomet town are facing a significant challenge following the closure of the county's only authorized landfill. The situation has led to the accumulation of waste in various parts of the town, causing unpleasant odors for residents and business owners. The problem arose after the temporary landfill, which had been in use for 12 years near 220 low-cost houses, was shut down before President William Ruto's visit on September 4.
The closure of the temporary landfill was done with the approval of the National Environment Management Authority (Nema). Richard Kering, the Nema director in Bomet County, acknowledged that the town lacks an authorized landfill. He stated that the county government has been delaying the allocation of a site that meets environmental standards. As a result, county workers have been burning waste at night to reduce the pileup in the town's bins.
The chairman of the Bomet branch of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce, Leonard Langat, warned that the situation is a looming disaster, especially with the anticipated El Niño rains set to begin next month. Langat expressed concerns about the potential health risks associated with the waste management crisis. Meanwhile, students from Bomet University have protested a plan to establish a new landfill near the college and the Nyangores River, a vital source of water for residents and students.
Bomet County Governor, Hillary Barchok, acknowledged that the county is facing a public health crisis and assured residents that efforts are underway to find a lasting solution. The governor's comments came amid concerns about the impact of the waste management crisis on the health and well-being of residents. The situation has also raised questions about the county's ability to manage its waste effectively.
The waste management crisis in Bomet County has significant implications for the health and environment of the residents. The county government has been criticized for its handling of the situation, with many calling for a more effective solution. The closure of the temporary landfill has left a critical gap in waste management, which the county has yet to fill.
The Nema director, Richard Kering, emphasized that the county government must allocate a suitable site for a new landfill to address the crisis. Until then, residents and business owners will continue to bear the brunt of the waste management crisis. The situation highlights the need for effective waste management strategies in the county to prevent similar crises in the future.
Residents of Bomet town have been compensated Sh350 million for damages caused by the waste.
Key points
- Bomet County lacks an authorized landfill.
- The temporary landfill was closed before President William Ruto's visit on September 4.
- The county government has been delaying the allocation of a site that meets environmental standards.
