Nominated Senator Peris Tobiko has called for a comprehensive investigation into the operations and environmental compliance of a waste incineration facility in Kajiado County, following residents’ concerns about its potential impact on public health and the environment.

In a statement to the Senate on June 17, 2026, Tobiko raised questions over the activities of Environmental Combustion Consultants Limited, operating as Mwabe in Kaputiei North, Kajiado County. She urged the Standing Committee on Land, Environment and Natural Resources to examine licensing procedures, compliance records, and environmental safeguards at the facility.

The Senator said residents from Empuyiankat, Empatipat, Olturoto and Ilasit have reported alleged burning of hazardous materials, including plastic waste, industrial chemical rejects and medical waste. She further cited complaints of persistent smoke and foul odours in the area.

Public health and environmental concerns raised

According to the statement, residents have linked exposure to emissions from the facility to increased cases of respiratory illnesses, including chronic coughing, breathing difficulties and severe headaches.

Tobiko also raised concern over the location of the facility within a mixed agricultural and residential area, saying its proximity to homes and farms could pose risks to food production, livestock and water safety.

She highlighted the presence of waste containment lagoons within the premises, which are reported to contain unidentified liquid waste and chemical residues. She said these substances may pose risks to soil quality and groundwater resources.

Regulatory compliance and licensing scrutiny

The Senator wants the committee to establish how the company was licensed to operate a hazardous waste facility in the area and whether public participation was conducted before approval.

She also called for details on environmental and public health compliance audits conducted by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), the Kajiado County Government and other relevant agencies.

Tobiko further requested information on air, soil and water quality assessments in the affected areas, including whether findings were shared with residents. She also sought clarification on forensic environmental studies and the composition of waste stored in ponds and reservoirs at the site.

In addition, she asked the committee to determine whether the government intends to review, suspend or revoke permits issued to the company if non-compliance is established, and to outline enforcement measures for environmental restoration and remediation where necessary.

The Senate committee is expected to review the matter in the coming weeks as part of ongoing oversight on environmental management and industrial operations in the country.