By Kemuma Achieng
The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has issued a stern 14-day ultimatum to the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC), demanding immediate action to address the lingering environmental damage caused by a 2015 oil spill in Thange, Makueni County.
The spill, which originated from KPC’s Mombasa–Nairobi pipeline, has continued to pollute the Thange River, causing widespread ecological harm and serious health problems for residents. Despite several investigations and public outcry, cleanup efforts have remained inadequate nearly a decade later.
In a letter dated Tuesday, NEMA Director-General Mamo B. Mamo ordered KPC to submit a “comprehensive and concise remediation and restoration plan” within two weeks. The plan must include clear timelines and outline steps for cleanup and site restoration. NEMA also directed KPC to immediately secure the contaminated area to prevent further exposure to the public.
Beyond the initial deadline, KPC has 21 days to conduct a series of environmental, social, and health assessments. These include hydrological and geological surveys, as well as laboratory tests to detect hydrocarbon contamination in soil, water, and local flora and fauna. The findings will guide both the environmental restoration process and compensation for affected communities.
“The outcome of these assessments shall inform environmental restoration and compensation of affected persons,” NEMA’s letter stated.
KPC is expected to coordinate its response with multiple stakeholders, including NEMA, the Water Resources Authority, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), the Ministry of Health, and the Makueni County Government. The company must also submit a final compliance report to the Senate Standing Committee on Energy within 30 days.
The spill has had devastating effects on local communities. Residents have reported rising cases of cancer and kidney failure, conditions believed to be linked to prolonged exposure to benzene, diesel, and other petroleum derivatives. Additionally, once-fertile farmland in the area has become barren due to long-term contamination.
Last month, Senator Oburu Oginga led the Senate Energy Committee on a fact-finding mission to Thange, where they urged KPC and national regulators to act swiftly.
With mounting pressure from lawmakers, regulators, and affected residents, the coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the long-overdue cleanup finally begins—or whether accountability for the Thange disaster will continue to be delayed.
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