The County Government of Nairobi has taken action against a popular hotel in Utawala for violating environmental regulations by openly burning garbage.
The County Environment Chief Officer, Geoffrey Mosiria with the help of police officers arrested the assistant manager of hotel after the establishment was found polluting the environment by burning waste in the open instead of disposing of it at the designated Dandora dumping site.
“This is a big hotel; they can afford to have their garbage collected and properly disposed of, but instead, they are engaging in open burning," Mosiria commented.
"The manager should be held responsible. This will serve as a practical example for Nairobi residents,” he added.
In a video seen by Kenyans.co.ke, Mosiria was recorded instructing police officers to apprehend the assistant manager after the hotel’s general manager was found to be absent.
The assistant manager denied authorising the burning of waste, while the manager, who was contacted via phone, also disclaimed responsibility, saying the hotel does not typically engage in open burning.
Mosiria emphasised that the county government was committed to protecting the environment and enforcing compliance with waste management regulations.
“Coincidentally, today we have visitors from around the world in Nairobi attending a workshop on the dangers of open burning. I met them while doing my rounds, and this action we’ve taken shows our commitment to addressing environmental pollution,” the Environment Chief Officer stated.
He noted that several international delegations are currently in Nairobi attending workshops aimed at discouraging air pollution, particularly open burning.
“Today, we responded to a case of air pollution in Utawala where a large hotel opted to burn its waste rather than dispose of it appropriately, thereby endangering the health of area residents," he added.
"We have taken the necessary action by arresting the assistant manager. Nairobi County Government strives to maintain a clean and healthy environment for all."
The assistant manager was taken to the police station and is expected to be arraigned in court for questioning.
Mosiria is responsible in overseeing the environmental management initiatives including urban cleanliness, waste management and green space development. He has been carrying out several crackdowns in Nairobi County including dumpsites and the loud music from clubs for instance.
