Ruiru residents reject construction of multi-billion asphalt mixing plant

Residents of Membley Estate in Ruiru, Kiambu County have opposed the proposed construction of an asphalt mixing manufacturing plant, citing health risks posed by the multi-billion investment.

During a public participation meeting held at the proposed site in Biashara ward, members of the local community and their leaders expressed their concerns about health risks posed by the asphalt making plant.

Representatives of the investor Strabag construction company had assured participants that safety measures would be put in place and that the plant would not harm residents.

The forum chaired by Ruiru Deputy County Commissioner Julius Too and attended by members of the Kiambu County Assembly Kimani wa Nduta (Biashara) and Kamande Coaches (Gitothua) is a constitutional requirement before any factory or industry can be built in an inhabited  area.

Speaking on behalf of residents, Samson Maina said asphalt plants are associated with production of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which, if released into the air, can cause health complications when inhaled.

“Some of the compounds released can cause long term and immediate health problems including cancer, lung disease, throat irritation, skin ailments and eye irritations,” said Maina in his submission.

A representative of Kingsmill Bakers located in the neighbourhood said the company feeds 300,000 families daily and has over 800 employees likely to be closed if asphalt plant is established there.

However, a group of youths from the neighbouring areas said they support establishment of the company as it would create job opportunities.

They claimed most of the factories in Ruiru were established without any public participation exercise being undertaken and that there is no proof that the asphalt plant would be harmful to locals.