Cabinet
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The Kenyan government has approved a nationwide initiative to eliminate asbestos from all public and private facilities in a move aimed at significantly reducing the public's exposure to the known carcinogen.
The decision, reached during a recent Cabinet meeting led by President William Ruto, tasks the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) with overseeing the safe removal, disposal, and handling of the hazardous material. The program follows growing concerns over the continued presence of asbestos in numerous buildings across the country, despite a ban implemented in 2006.
“Classified as a human carcinogen, asbestos exposure is linked to severe health conditions, including lung cancer and mesothelioma (a cancer that develops in the tissue lining of the lungs, abdomen and heart).”
Asbestos, a material widely used in Kenya's construction sector during the 1960s and 1970s, has been linked to severe health conditions, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. Many government offices, hospitals, schools, and water supply systems still contain the substance, posing ongoing health risks to the population.
Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale called for the action last year, drawing attention to the widespread use of asbestos roofing in government, religious, and educational institutions. The new directive empowers Duale's appeal, which pushes various ministries to enforce the removal of asbestos roofing.
Under the new initiative, county governments are mandated to establish designated asbestos disposal sites, adhering to the guidelines outlined in Section 2(g) of the Fourth Schedule of the Constitution. Furthermore, property owners will bear the financial responsibility for asbestos removal, in accordance with the 'Polluter Pays' principle, emphasizing accountability for environmental contamination.
The government projects that the successful implementation of this program will lead to a reduction in future disease incidence, decreased healthcare costs, and improved environmental safety. By proactively addressing the asbestos issue, Kenya aims to safeguard its citizens from the severe health consequences associated with exposure and promote a healthier environment.