Nairobi: The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has announced it will conduct a further assessment to ascertain whether AVOPRO Limited, an avocado factory in Muthiti, Mwea West Sub-county, has breached its Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) license conditions.
According to Kenya News Agency, AVOPRO Limited has been accused by local residents in a petition to the County Assembly of Kirinyaga of discharging untreated effluent into River Murangu, a crucial water source for numerous households and farms in the region. NEMA officials, led by Regional Director Parnwell Simitu and County Director of Environment Kanani Wanjohi, appeared before the County Assembly of Kirinyaga's Committee on Environment, Water and Natural Resources for a follow-up hearing. They confirmed that an environmental audit had been conducted at the facility, and a report was received in January 2025. However, they will conduct another assessment to ensure the company complies with all EIA license conditions.
During the hearing, the committee, chaired by Mukure ward Member of County Assembly (MCA) Timothy Kariuki, interrogated the company's adherence to environmental regulations and demanded clarification on measures taken to manage and treat industrial waste. In response, AVOPRO representatives, led by General Manager Mwangi Njiru, asserted that the firm operates within the required environmental standards. They noted that they have engaged three companies to transport solid waste and effluent to designated waste disposal sites in Murang'a and Embu counties.
AVOPRO confirmed addressing concerns regarding the disposal of water used in cleaning industrial equipment. They pledged full cooperation with both the County Assembly and NEMA to address the raised issues. Furthermore, AVOPRO revealed plans to apply for an emission license to comply with air quality regulations and explore options to recycle avocado waste into organic fertilizer.
Chairperson Timothy Kariuki emphasized the Assembly's commitment to ensuring accountability and environmental responsibility, urging investors to operate within the law and uphold practices that protect communities near industrial firms.