Residents protest against quarrying on Maai Mahiu escarpment

Environment Principal Secretary Festus Ngeno with National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) Director Genera Mamo B. Mamo address Maai Mahiu residents in NAkuru. [Boniface Okendo,Standard]

"This quarry was started three years ago. As you can see, it's on the escarpment. Hundreds of trees were cut leading to environmental degradation. We fear there will be landslides in future if they do not stop their operations," said Dolman Lerru, the chairman of Namuncha Maasai Community.

They also said that the company was cutting down more trees to expand their operations, posing a threat to Ewaso Kedong River that flows from the rocks of the Maai Mahiu escarpment.

Several families have been forced to relocate due to cracks in their houses, falling rocks and dust caused by the quarry.

The residents vowed to continue their protests until the quarry is completely shut down and the environment restored.