Uasin Gishu Governor Issues Warning After Chemical Spillage into River KipKarren–Bindura–Kesses
For now, residents have been asked to remain vigilant and adhere strictly to the temporary restrictions on the use of river water.
Farmers and livestock owners were also cautioned against allowing their animals to drink from the river until authorities provide further guidance. Photo/Courtesy.
By Ruth Sang
People in Uasin Gishu County have been advised to take precautionary measures following an accident where a lorry carrying goods towards the Democratic Republic of Congo overturned on Thursday evening, spilling a white substance into a major river. In a public notice early this morning, Governor Jonathan Bii asked households within the affected areas to exercise caution due to possible danger from the spill.
The accident, according to the Governor, happened at Matharu area, Tarakwa Ward in Timboroa Location. The truck ferrying an unidentified white material lost control, overturned, and the contents flowed directly into River Kipkarren–Bindura–Kesses. The river is a key source of water for many homesteads and farms in the area, drawing the concern of local authorities on the probable impact.
In a notice, Governor Bii said that preliminary reports indicated the substance was an industrial chemical. However, the exact nature of the material was yet to be confirmed. He stated that experts from NEMA had been notified and were already conducting an evaluation to determine exactly what had spilled into the river.
Until NEMA completes its investigation and confirms the classification and safety level of the chemical, the Governor advised the public to avoid using the water from the river. He specifically urged residents not to consume the water or use it for cooking, washing, or other domestic activities. Farmers and livestock owners were also cautioned against allowing their animals to drink from the river until authorities provide further guidance.
The Governor emphasized that the advisory was purely a precautionary measure to protect public health as environmental experts study the situation. He urged the residents to be vigilant and continue checking with the county government and other appropriate agencies as more information is available.
Governor Bii further added that the alert was raised so that communities do not expose themselves or their livestock in areas where they might be exposed to dangerous chemicals. He reiterated the aspect of cooperation as the assessment goes on, urging residents in the surrounding areas to exhibit patience while waiting for official confirmation from NEMA regarding the substance involved. The county government is expected to release more information once environmental officers complete their analysis and recommend the next steps. For now, residents have been asked to remain vigilant and adhere strictly to the temporary restrictions on the use of river water.
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