• During his inaugural visit to the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) headquarters on August 28, 2024, CS Duale emphasized the urgency of the matter.

Aden Duale, the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, has issued a directive for the removal of asbestos roofing from facilities across the country within the next three months.

This order encompasses schools and various private establishments, reflecting growing concerns over the health risks associated with asbestos exposure.

During his inaugural visit to the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) headquarters on August 28, 2024, CS Duale emphasized the urgency of the matter.

He revealed that he had already communicated with public institutions housing asbestos roofs, instructing them to remove and dispose of the materials in accordance with NEMA guidelines.

Accompanied by Dr. Eng. Festus Ngeno, the Permanent Secretary of the State Department of Environment and Climate Change, CS Duale engaged in discussions with NEMA’s Board of Directors, management, and staff. The meeting focused on critical issues affecting the Authority and highlighted the need for operational improvements.

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To enhance NEMA’s effectiveness, CS Duale announced plans to fast-track the gazettement of 13 pending regulations under the Environmental Management and Coordination Act (EMCA). He acknowledged the Authority's vital role in environmental management and stressed that any oversight could have serious repercussions for public health.

In a significant update, the CS was informed that 12,300 wetlands have been mapped nationwide. He urged NEMA to continually update this list to facilitate timely and appropriate actions for environmental protection.

CS Duale also called for improved revenue collection within NEMA to ensure optimal service delivery to the public. As the Designated National Authority for Carbon markets, he tasked the Board and management with diligently fulfilling their responsibilities to address climate change and meet obligations outlined in the Paris Agreement.

"Nema must enforce the law to ensure the environment is protected and safeguarded," he stated firmly, emphasizing the need for compliance across all 47 counties. He urged County Directors of Environment to eliminate bottlenecks in the licensing process to streamline operations.

In addressing ongoing environmental concerns, the CS specifically warned against the discharge of raw sewage into Nairobi's rivers. He insisted that NEMA collaborate with the Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company to prevent wastewater from entering the rivers due to burst sewer lines.

NEMA Chairman Emilio Mugo, represented by Vice Chair Sophia Matura, reiterated the Authority's dedication to tackling various environmental challenges through the implementation of environmental laws and strategic partnerships.

Director General Mamo B. Mamo echoed these sentiments, highlighting NEMA's progress in enhancing environmental compliance through regular enforcement actions.