The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has debunked widespread claims that raw sewage was flowing over two kilometres before joining River Kathita in Meru.

Responding to allegations that the two-kilometre stretch of sewage was spreading a foul smell in the area and was a possible cause of the rampant cancer cases in the region, NEMA revealed that they had assessed the complaint and determined the alleged sewage was, in fact, treated wastewater and did not bear any smell. "We are in receipt of this issue.

Our County Director of Environment in Meru visited the site with other relevant officers.

The preliminary findings established that the water in question is actually treated wastewater from the sewer plant and has no smell," part of the statement read. "However, the Director and the team held a meeting  with the sewer plant management to undertake dislodging of the lagoons as they wait for the completion of the new sewer plant, which is 60 per cent complete." NEMA environmental inspectors and Police Unit undertaking surveillance and enforcement on noise pollution in Nairobi's Kilimani area, October 24, 2024.