Mbita Residents Block Proposed Asbestos Dumpsite on Lake Victoria

Residents of Mbita and environmental groups have successfully halted a private company’s plan to establish an asbestos disposal site along the shores of Lake Victoria.

The proposal, fronted by Lakers Consultancy Limited, was overwhelmingly rejected during a community participation meeting held on May 25, 2026, in Kasgunga East Sub location, Homa Bay County.

The company, a licensed hazardous waste operator, had sought approval to set up a landfill intended to receive asbestos waste from demolition and renovation projects. However, residents argued that placing the dumpsite near the lake posed a direct threat to fishing livelihoods, tourism, and public health.

Environmental activists described the plan as environmentally dangerous, socially irresponsible, medically hazardous, and constitutionally unacceptable. They warned that asbestos fibres could contaminate the lake, endanger communities, and disrupt the ecosystem that supports millions of people across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

Local leaders and environmental groups joined the protests, insisting that asbestos should not be landfilled near Lake Victoria. They called for safer alternatives, including modern technologies that destroy and repurpose asbestos into new construction materials.

The standoff highlights Kenya’s broader struggle with hazardous waste management.

Asbestos from aging buildings continues to pose risks during demolition, yet the country has limited safe disposal facilities. Authorities are being urged to strengthen environmental impact assessments and ensure transparent community engagement before approving such projects.

Residents say they support development but will not compromise their health or the integrity of Lake Victoria. For now, the proposed dumpsite has been put on hold as consultations continue.

Asbestos is a known carcinogen. Improper disposal can release dangerous fibres into air and water, creating long term health risks and potentially contaminating the lake’s vast ecosystem.