Client: Kenya’s Ministries of Environment and Health, under the Africa ChemObs project, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF)
Emerald Environment Ltd provided technical assistance under the Africa ChemObs project, implemented by Kenya’s Ministries of Environment and Health. As part of the assignment, Emerald piloted the PAN UK Chemical Risk and Vulnerability Calculator to prioritise contaminated sites for remediation based on relative human health and environmental risks. This work drew directly on our Chemicals and Waste Management practice.
The assessment covered 31 contaminated sites across four high-risk sectors: municipal dumpsites, lead-acid battery recycling, artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM), and light industries (Jua Kali and scrap metal recycling).
Key Findings
- Kenya had an estimated 70,736 workers directly employed in chemical-related industries (2019), with many more potentially exposed through agriculture, manufacturing, and contaminated air, water and soil.
- Five sites were identified as posing significant risks of lead poisoning, and three of these were classified as very high risk: an informal lead-acid battery recycling area in Kayole, a formal lead-acid battery recycling facility, and the Dandora municipal dumpsite.
- Among six municipal dumpsites assessed, Dandora recorded the highest human health risk, followed by Kerugoya, Gioto (Nakuru), Voi, Bungoma, and Nyeri.
- The study also flagged persistent risks from Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). The decommissioned Kitengela obsolete chemicals storage site remained highly vulnerable, underscoring the need for continued attention.
Outcome
The findings provided an evidence base for prioritising remediation, strengthening chemical safety governance, and directing investment towards Kenya’s highest-risk contaminated sites.
Looking for support on a similar assignment? Explore our Chemicals and Waste Management services, or get in touch to discuss your project.