A Chinese company operating in Naivasha, Kenya, has come under fire from local residents and authorities for allegedly ignoring orders to cease quarrying activities. The company, located off Moi South Lake road, has been accused of causing massive air and noise pollution, affecting nearby homes and institutions. Residents claim that the quarrying activities have been ongoing for two months, despite orders from the Ministry of Mining and the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) to stop.
On October 5, 2026, over 300 demonstrators, including parents from a nearby school, stormed the facility, carrying placards and twigs, and vowed to hold weekly demonstrations until the company abides by the law. Caroline Wanjiku from Longonot Vista Resort stated that the quarrying activities had severely impacted their operations, leading to massive losses. She expressed concern over the company's impunity, questioning whether a Kenyan company could engage in similar activities in China without facing consequences.
Residents have reported health complications due to the loud blasts and dust from the quarrying activities. Margaret Kusa, a parent from Longonot DEB Prima school, mentioned that children were complaining of chest pains since the quarrying started. The dust has also disrupted learning activities at the school. Mark Mwangi, another resident, pointed out that no public participation was conducted before the quarry operations began, as required by environmental law.
A senior officer from NEMA confirmed that the company was operating illegally, without licenses from the authority or Nakuru County government. The officer stated that stop-orders had been served to the company, but they had been ignored. David Chege, a youth leader, vowed that the demonstrations would continue until the quarry was closed down and the activities withdrawn.
The company's quarrying activities have affected not only the environment but also the local economy. Wanjiku noted that the pollution had paralyzed their operations, leading to significant losses. The residents are calling on the national government to intervene and address the issue. The Ministry of Mining and NEMA have been urged to take action against the company.
The incident highlights the need for effective regulation and enforcement of environmental laws in Kenya. The government has been urged to ensure that companies operating in the country comply with environmental regulations and respect the rights of local communities. The case has also raised concerns about the impact of foreign investment on local environments and communities.
The demonstrations are expected to continue until the company addresses the concerns of the local residents. The government has been urged to take a firm stance on the issue and ensure that the company is held accountable for its actions. The incident has sparked a wider debate about the need for sustainable and responsible investment in Kenya's extractive industries.
Key points
- The Chinese mining company has been accused of ignoring orders to cease quarrying activities in Naivasha, Kenya, leading to air and noise pollution.
- Residents have reported health complications and economic losses due to the quarrying activities.
- The company has been operating illegally, without licenses from NEMA or Nakuru County government, and has ignored stop-orders from authorities.
