Geoffrey Mosiria, Chief Officer for Environment in Nairobi, has issued a stern warning to businesses operating illegally in residential areas, directing them to relocate to designated industrial zones or face enforcement action.
In a statement released on Friday, November 7, Mosiria emphasized that the county government will be taking decisive measures against illegal recycling facilities and other businesses in residential neighborhoods that have become health hazards to Nairobi residents.
"We are not saying you stop doing your business, but why block your neighbours? Please do the right thing so nobody bothers you. Do it from the right place, away from residential areas if it's harmful," Mosiria stated.
The Environment Chief Officer specifically targeted illegal recycling facilities, particularly those involved in bottle recycling, operating in residential areas, warning that such establishments must ensure environmental compliance or risk closure.
"We shall be taking action against illegal recycling facilities in residential areas that have become health hazards to the people of Nairobi. Ensure that your facilities are environmentally compliant. This city is for all of us, and we must protect the well-being and peace of our residents," he declared.
Read More
Mosiria outlined the various forms of pollution that residents have been forced to endure due to businesses operating illegally in their neighborhoods, including smoke, noise, foul odors, and general environmental degradation.
"If your business emits smoke, noise, foul smell, or any form of pollution, relocate to designated industrial zones. Let us work together to create a clean, safe, and healthy Nairobi for everyone," he urged.
This latest directive is part of a broader environmental enforcement measure being undertaken by Nairobi County.
.jpg)
Previously, the Environment Chief Officer has taken a firm stance against various environmental violations across the city, including the improper use of drainage systems.
In October, Mosiria issued warnings to business owners, landlords, and property owners in Eastleigh regarding the misuse of drainage channels, demanding immediate compliance with county environmental laws.
"Eastleigh impunity must be stopped! 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," he had stated at the time.
The Environment Chief Officer expressed concern over the widespread dumping of garbage into drainage channels, describing it as a rampant practice in Eastleigh and other parts of the city.
"Drainage systems are not meant for dumping garbage, as is currently happening in Eastleigh and other parts of the city," he emphasized.
Mosiria also reminded property owners of their legal obligations under the Nairobi City County Solid Waste Management Act of 2015, which requires them to maintain cleanliness within a 10-meter radius of their premises, particularly around drainage systems.
"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 warned.
