Operations not affected by coal dust incident, says Bamburi Cement

The Bamburi Cement company in Mombasa, reacting after reports that it had been temporarily shut down, says none of its operations have been affected by a "recent, unprecedented coal dust incident".

In a statement seen by The Eastleigh Voice, Bamburi said it had only just taken some voluntary actions to address concerns raised following the incident "occasioned by unprecented winds during coal storage preparation at our plant".

"In collaboration with the County Government of Mombasa, we have voluntarily suspended specific activities, implementing additional measures and establishing a cross-functional committee," it stated. "In our commitment to compliance, we are conducting thorough reviews, enhancing community engagement and maintaining normal operations."

A section of the Bamburi Cement company's plant in Mombasa County, as pictured during an inspection by Mombasa County officials on January 8, 2024. (Photo: Mombasa County).

Reports earlier indicated that Mombasa had closed Bamburi's quarry due to complaints from Kwa Bulo and Bamburi residents about the storage of coal. They claimed it was causing health risks to people within a three-kilometer radius.

The factory imported more than 50,000 tonnes of coal through the Mombasa port and started transferring it to the factory on January 3. Despite transferring more than 40,000 tonnes of coal to the factory premises, the county criticised it for storing it in an open area.

During a visit by Mombasa's Deputy Governor  Francis Thoya and other environment officials to the area, residents raised concerns about workers handling the coal without protective gear. The factory officials acknowledged not having an Environmental Impact Assessment license but claimed to have taken the necessary precautions.

The county delegation expressed dissatisfaction, alleging the company ignored a notice it served.

Mombasa Deputy Governor Francis Thoya during an inspection of the Bamburi Cement company's premises on January 8, 2024. (Photo: Mombasa County).

The company, in a subsequent statement, admitted to an "isolated occurrence" of dust emissions caused by winds during coal handling, but underlined commitment to environmental safety. It assured measures had been taken to prevent similar occurrences and further emphasised its compliance with environmental regulations.

In its most recent statement, Bamburi highlighted its corporate social responsibility initiatives and sustainability endeavors such as the Bamburi Haller Park. The company underscored its dedication to environmental stewardship and community well-being.

It also said it remains actively involved with Mombasa's public health and environment departments, as well as other stakeholders, and that it was working towards a sustainable resolution.