Pollution of Nairobi River has long been a major problem that has gone unsolved. There are various causes of pollution of the river i.e. industries that are set up on the riparian zones; informal settlements located on the river banks also pose a threat to the vulnerable ecosystem. Riparian zones are vulnerable ecosystems that should be left for animals and plants, not human settlements.
Informal settlements
Presence of informal settlements is a major driver in pollution of the river as the river passes through various informal settlements in the city where unfortunately most waste is directed to. This is because the people living around that area are subjected to low standards of living. This means there is poor waste disposal, hence most of their waste is dumped into the river.
I’ve been to a few informal settlements within the city and fortunately most have toilet facilities. These include shared ones set up by the residents and also paid ones put in place by organizations. The paid ones are actually affordable going for 5ksh. However, the issue is those who can’t afford have no option but to use river banks where flowing water is available.
Another challenge is not just availability of the facilities but rather proper systems to handle the wastes. Most of the informal settlements are on riparian zones and the wastes from the toilets are directed to the river. The picture below was taken during a study I was conducting two years ago.
Settlements on riparian zones risk destruction of water resources as well as dependency on the harmful water. What’s at risk here, is water resources as well as health of many people. It’s very unfortunate, that such a great resource is now dead. Proper urban planning should be put in place so as to manage and upgrade informal settlements. This will also enable proper protection of riparian zones and eventually our water bodies.
It’s important that we take into account that residents of informal settlements are also victims of such pollution. Pollution of rivers greatly exposes them to health hazards as they are more likely to succumb to water borne diseases due the fact that they suffer from water scarcity.
Industries
Presence of industries close to the river is a threat. Is the follow up on water and waste discharged by industries into the river that extensive or adequate?
Car wash
There are a significant number of car wash stations found near the Nairobi River. The issue is where the oil and soapy water from washing the car ends up. It all finds its way to the river. This might seem insignificant, but to the health of the soils as well as the river, every measure has to be taken seriously.
Individuals
Actions by individuals also influence state of the river. Individuals who dispose their wastes e.g. plastics, human faecal matter, and kitchen refuse etc. in water bodies contribute to pollution as well. If the people want change, they should as well change their behavior and attitudes towards conservation.
Actions
Water is a vital resource for human health and development as well as food security and sustainable development. Its benefits goes beyond social, economic and environmental values, hence actions towards its conservation is very important.
Actions towards cleaner water bodies should be at levels, by government, regions or state, cities, communities, companies, institutions as well as individuals. When all levels effectively collaborate and do their part, it creates enabling conditions for policies to be effective and achievement of main goals becomes possible.
We need to be sanguine about adopting sustainable practices in order to conserve natural resources for nature’s benefits as well as benefit of mankind.
Conclusion
Ecosystems restoration after years of degradation or pollution has been achieved in many countries. Although it takes years and this is no excuse to damage our ecosystems, as some are damaged to a point where restoration becomes difficult.
A great example is River Thames which was once considered biologically dead is now among the cleanest river passing through a major city. Kenya can follow the same footsteps and successfully restore Nairobi River.
BE A PART OF THE SOLUTION NOT A PART OF THE POLLUTION!!!