Nema shuts down Likoni Lane construction site after city residents raise public health concerns
The directive comes amid ongoing efforts by Nema to regulate construction activities and curb environmental pollution in Nairobi.
The National Environment Management Authority (Nema) has ordered the closure of a construction site on Likoni Lane, off Dennis Pritt Road in Nairobi County, following complaints from the public about activities at the site.
In a notice on Wednesday, Nema Director-General Mamo Boru Mamo attributed the directive to environmental and public health concerns raised by residents.
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“In response to the public complaints received on the Alina Valley Company Ltd undertaking construction activities on Likoni Lane, off Dennis Pritt Road, the director-general (of) Nema has today directed the closure of the said site with immediate effect until further notice,” Mamo said.
He further indicated that the agency would undertake an immediate assessment of the site to determine necessary corrective measures.
“Meanwhile, the authority will undertake an immediate assessment of the said site for appropriate corrective action to protect our environment and public health,” he said.
The directive comes amid ongoing efforts by Nema to regulate construction activities and curb environmental pollution in Nairobi.
On 24 October 2024, the authority issued strict guidelines to construction firms, barring any work beyond 6 pm and prohibiting construction on weekends.
Night constructions
“Surveillance on night constructions was also undertaken to ensure that developments adhere to their license conditions. Any construction is supposed to stop at 6 pm and is not to be done on weekends,” the authority said.
The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry has also intensified efforts to address pollution in urban areas.
On October 22, 2024, Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale directed Nema to initiate a major crackdown on various forms of pollution in Nairobi through a multi-agency operation led by the Nema police unit.
“I have directed Nema’s Nairobi office to launch a major crackdown on pollution, targeting noise from clubs, night-time construction, improper waste disposal, and air quality,” Duale said, emphasising the need for strict compliance with environmental laws.
He warned that clubs operating in residential areas would only be allowed to continue operating if they fully complied with soundproofing and environmental regulations.
“The era of impunity by club owners and private developers must end,” he said.
The crackdown marks the beginning of a broader anti-pollution campaign across the country, according to Duale.
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