BY NURU SALIM
Kibuyuni B, formerly known as Custom, has become a living nightmare for its residents due to an expanding open dumpsite that emits a foul smell, making life unbearable for the surrounding community.
Once a thriving residential area hosting government staff quarters, the land was cleared to pave the way for a government affordable housing project.
However, what was supposed to be a symbol of progress has now turned into a site of despair.
Residents are now calling on the relevant authorities to intervene and clear the dumpsite which has grown significantly over the past eight months.
According to locals, the pit became a dumping ground for garbage collectors who consistently dump waste in the area.
Most of the collectors go door to door to collect waste, only for them to dump it in unclassified areas.
Despite an attempt three months ago by a lorry crew to tidy the area by gathering and grouping the waste, no further action has been taken, causing the situation to worsen.
One of the most vocal residents, a businesswoman identified as Mary Achieng runs a Mugoka business near the dumpsite.
She attributes the foul smell as one of the reasons for her declining customer turnout.
βThe smell makes it hard for customers to stay around. Itβs affecting my business,β she said.
Another Omar Swaleh said the situation has also forced some small business owners in the area to temporarily shut down, hoping for the dumpsite to be cleared.
Swaleh said the stench is not only affecting businesses but also the quality of life for residents.
He expressed frustration over the unbearable conditions during the night.
βWhen the smell gets into the room, it lingers for hours, making it impossible to sleep comfortably,” he said.
James Kinyua said they fear a potential outbreak of diseases such as cholera and typhoid due to the unsanitary conditions.
Kinyua said the open dumpsite has become a breeding ground for flies, mosquitoes, and other disease-carrying pests.
He added that contaminated soil and water sources further exacerbate the risk of waterborne illnesses, creating a looming public health crisis for the community.
Large dumpsites, such as the one in Kibuyuni B, have far-reaching consequences for both the environment and public health.
The open landfill emits noxious gases, including methane, which contributes to air pollution.
The residents of Kibuyuni B are now urging the relevant government authorities to address the issue by removing the dumpsite and implementing sustainable waste management practices.
βWe need urgent action. This place used to be a decent neighbourhood, but now itβs unbearable,β said Kinyua.
