Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. on Tuesday unveiled a
County Technical Working Team to assess the effects of oil spillage in Thange
Ward.
The spill, first detected in 2015, is believed to have continuously
affected the community and the environment in Kibwezi East Sub County.
Some who developed serious health conditions, including
respiratory issues and skin conditions, as well as environmental damage such as
water contamination, loss of aquatic life and reduced soil fertility have
linked their predicaments to the spillage.
In his address to the public forum in Thange market,
Governor Mutula called on the newly unveiled team to accelerate their
investigation into the effects of the oil spillage and submit an interim report
within a month
“Let us refrain from prioritizing personal and political
interests at the expense of affected residents and the damaged local ecosystems,”
stated the governor.
Governor Mutula downplayed a report that recommended that
Thange residents were not affected by the oil spill as it reads.
The report by NEMA, early this year, concluded that no
adverse effects on human health were identified that would necessitate further
intervention.
"We as Makueni residents call for an immediate withdrawal
of the recommendation by the Government of Kenya that Thange River is clean,"
noted the Governor.
"I have very clear reports back in 2016 a year after
the oil spill indicating the possible effects to our people if they
consume the polluted water," reiterated Mutula.
The 8-member team, consisting of technical officers from the
environment, water, livestock, public health and water analysis sectors, will
play a key role in establishing the foundation for filing a formal complaint
and determining the way forward for the affected community.
Mutula was joined by County Secretary Dr. Justin Kyambi, CECMs Nicholas Nzioka (Devolution), Japheth Mang’oka (Lands), Dr. Paul Musila (Health), Eng. John Kieti (Water), County Attorney Stanley Nthiwa, and MCAs Eric Katumo, Harrison Mwanzia, and Brian Nzoka.
