NEMA raises alarm over night dumping of hazardous roofing materials in Makueni
By Cynthia Lodite, May 12, 2026The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has responded to a call by Makueni residents over the illegal dumping of hazardous asbestos roofing materials.
In a statement on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, NEMA confirmed that the hazardous roofing materials were dumped at Smart Village in Kaasuvi Sub-location at night by unknown individuals.
“NEMAKenya yesterday responded to an incident involving the illegal dumping of asbestos roofing materials at Smart Village in Kaasuvi Sub-location, Makindu Sub-County. The hazardous materials are believed to have been dumped during the night by unknown individuals,” NEMA said.
Following the alarm raised by the residents, NEMA Makueni County, in collaboration with the Public Health Department of Makueni County government, took swift action, secured and cordoned off the affected area to prevent public exposure.
At the same time, NEMA has warned residents against touching, collecting, transporting, or reusing the dumped asbestos materials.
According to NEMA, asbestos, which is classified as a hazardous substance when its fibres are disturbed and inhaled, can cause serious health complications, including respiratory diseases, lung damage, and cancer.
Members of the public are advised to keep away from the site and to report any information that may help identify the individuals responsible for the illegal dumping.
In addition, NEMA has announced that relevant authorities are undertaking the necessary measures to ensure the safe handling, transportation, and disposal of the hazardous waste in accordance with environmental and public health regulations.
What to know about asbestos roofing
Asbestos roofing is a construction material made from asbestos fibers mixed with cement, a combination valued for its durability, fire resistance, and affordability. It was used widely for much of the 20th century.
Asbestos roofing, primarily asbestos cement (ACR) sheets, was popular due to its durability and fire resistance but is now banned globally due to health risks from inhaling asbestos fibers, which cause cancer and lung diseases.
Despite the ban in 2006, many older roofs remain, posing dangers from deterioration during renovations.
According to Legal Notice No.121 of the Environmental Management and Coordination (Waste Management) Regulations, 2006, waste containing asbestos is classified as hazardous and must be disposed of in a manner approved by NEMA.
Classified as a human carcinogen, asbestos exposure has been directly linked to severe illnesses, including lung cancer, asbestosis and mesothelioma, a deadly cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen and heart.
In March 2025, Cabinet approved the phase out of asbestos roofing material.