Kericho residents demand action after hazardous material discovered dumped on footpath

By Stanley Kimoru 

Residents of Waldai Ward in Belgut Sub-County, Kericho are demanding urgent action after discovering large amounts of hazardous medical waste dumped along the Sosiot-Cheribo route. 

The waste includes used syringes, blood-stained needles, cotton swabs, and empty medical vials, posing a serious risk to public health and the environment.

The residents told Wananch Reporting that the waste was discarded along a rural footpath, raising fears of potential infections and injuries among locals, especially children and livestock. 

They said such an incident is unprecedented in the area.

“This is the first time we are seeing something like this here. It’s extremely dangerous and irresponsible,” said one concerned resident.

The medical waste is suspected to be from a private health facility, prompting calls for investigations to determine its origin. 

Locals are urging Kericho County health officials to take swift measures to identify and prosecute those responsible.

They are also appealing for the immediate cleanup and proper disposal of the hazardous materials to prevent any health-related incidents and protect the environment.