Nairobi MCAs oppose Lang’ata Cemetery closure without alternative burial site
Members of the Nairobi County Assembly are pushing back against a proposal by the national government to shut down Lang’ata Cemetery, saying no closure should happen until an alternative burial site is identified.
This comes after Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni told the National Assembly that a special committee had recommended the cemetery be degazetted due to health risks.
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The cemetery sits on 100 acres of land and is the largest public burial ground in Nairobi.
“If we were to safeguard the public health and promote a healthier and safer society, and therefore, on this issue of the cemetery, we are behind the recommendations that were made by the committee that should be implemented,” Muthoni said.
But the Nairobi County Assembly Health Committee raised concerns about the sudden closure.
Chairperson Maurice Ochieng stressed that a proper transition must be in place to avoid unnecessary distress for city families.
“We cannot wake up and say we are closing it. We must have an alternative place for the departed because in a day, about 20 people are buried at the cemetery,” Ochieng said.
He added that halting burials without a backup plan would leave many residents stranded.
“If we just stop immediately and city residents will suffer, as a committee of health, we are deliberating on the way forward before it is closed.”
Woodley Kenyatta Golf Course MCA Davidson Ngibuini noted that the concerns raised over shallow graves and overuse are valid, but they must be handled with care.
“The issue of shallow graves is weighty, as said by the national government; thus, an alternative should be found and a policy around it,” he said.
Lily Kidenda, another member of the committee, warned against shutting down the cemetery without notifying the public and ensuring there's a place for the deceased.
“Because death does not wait for anyone, there will be people dying and they need to be buried, and it will be critical that the procedures are followed,” she said.
The national committee’s report suggested Nairobi County either acquire new land, seek an extension into Ngong Forest, or reclaim grabbed land near the cemetery.
PS Muthoni urged the county to act on the matter by securing proper documentation. She also emphasised that burial practices must follow public health laws to avoid disease outbreaks and environmental damage.
The MCAs said they will continue discussing possible solutions but maintained that abrupt closure is not an option.
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