Nyamira, Kenya – Residents of Kebirigo sub-location in Nyamira County are facing significant challenges due to runoff water from the nearby Kebirigo tea factory. The issue has intensified with the onset of enhanced rainfall, leading to concerns about the safety of homes and livelihoods.
According to Kenya News Agency, Alice Moraa, a resident, expressed her distress over the runoff water, which she suspects is being diverted from the tea factory through outlets in the fence. The water has severely disrupted her daily life, making it difficult to cook and threatening the stability of her mud-walled house. Moraa fears the potential collapse of her home and loss of household items due to the waterlogged ground.
Mr. Abel Momanyi shared similar concerns, noting the adverse impact on his cattle and poultry farming investments. The runoff water has inundated his compound, forcing him to confine his free-range chickens and raising concerns about disease transmission. Momanyi is particularly worried about the contamination of his well water, which is crucial for domestic use.
Nelson Nduko, the chairman of Kebirigo tea factory, acknowledged the issue and informed that the factory management has convened an urgent crisis meeting. They have resolved to implement immediate temporary measures to control the runoff water, including digging trenches within the factory compound. The factory is also planning a long-term solution to be executed within the month.
This situation in Kebirigo is reflective of the broader challenges posed by enhanced rainfall across the country, which has led to property destruction, loss of lives, and climate stability concerns.