NAKURU: The County Government of Nakuru has urged a collective response to tackle the growing air pollution problem in the region, emphasizing that the responsibility extends beyond government institutions. Mr. Kiogora Muriithi, Nakuru’s City Director of Environment, highlighted the need for a united effort among all stakeholders, including private sectors and civil society, to combat the environmental challenge.
According to Kenya News Agency, Mr. Muriithi addressed the issue during a meeting organized in collaboration with the Flemish International Climate Action Plan (FICAP). The initiative aims to engage residents in focus group discussions to better understand public perceptions of air quality in Nakuru City. The meeting served as a platform for citizens to voice their experiences and concerns, underscoring the city’s commitment to fostering a cleaner and healthier environment.
Mr. Muriithi stressed the importance of the private sector in adopting cleaner technologies to reduce emissions, while civil society organizations are tasked with advocating for cleaner air and raising public awareness about pollution’s dangers. He suggested that individual citizens can contribute by making environmentally responsible choices to minimize their impact.
The meeting also highlighted alarming statistics from UNEP, indicating that air pollution caused nearly 400,000 premature deaths in Africa in 2019. Mr. Muriithi noted that Nakuru is experiencing severe health impacts from air pollution, with a rise in respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, particularly affecting vulnerable populations.
Governor Susan Kihika’s administration has made significant strides in air quality monitoring by installing air sensors throughout the city. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to gather data on air quality, identify pollution hotspots, and develop effective interventions. The initiative integrates artificial intelligence tools for accurate forecasting, aligning with Nakuru’s commitment to environmental sustainability and public health.
The County Government is collaborating with various partners, including Egerton University, KU Leuven, and the Kenya Meteorological Department, to provide timely data for understanding pollution trends. This collaboration aims to equip the city with a comprehensive air quality monitoring network and management system.
As Nakuru continues to grow as an industrial and commercial hub, it faces challenges such as increased transportation and industrial activities. Mr. Muriithi identified potential pollution drivers, including industrial processes, poor waste management, and urban transport infrastructure.
The World Health Organization reports that air pollution is the largest single environmental health risk globally, causing millions of deaths annually. Mr. Muriithi acknowledged the significant health, environmental, and economic impacts of air pollution, emphasizing the need for a strategic plan to address these issues effectively.
The county administration is committed to engaging with the community to enhance air quality, seeing this initiative as a sustainable approach to addressing air pollution in Nakuru.
