Concern grows over deadly air pollution crisis

Air Pollution Crisis in Kenya: A Growing Threat to Public Health

Kenya is facing a severe air pollution crisis, with over 26,000 deaths attributed to hazardous air pollution in the country last year, according to the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI). This alarming figure highlights the urgent need for intervention to prevent further deterioration of public health. The data was shared during the Pan-African Conference on Environment, Climate Change and Health: Science to Policy, which brought together leaders from across the continent to address interconnected environmental and health challenges.

The situation has worsened over the years, with the number of deaths linked to air pollution increasing from 16,000 in 2016 to 21,000 in 2019. KEMRI research officer Gohole Arthur emphasized that more than 90% of schools and 76% of households rely on polluting fuels such as firewood and charcoal. The annual harvesting of 11.5 million tonnes of wood for cooking contributes significantly to carbon dioxide emissions, exacerbating climate change and health issues.

Arthur noted that pollution levels in Kenya are three times higher than the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. He stressed the importance of strengthening national air quality monitoring systems and accelerating the transition to clean energy technologies. Additionally, he called for increased policy and funding support for interventions aimed at reducing hazardous air pollution.

KEMRI has established an air pollution Centre of Excellence, the first of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa. This center focuses on training experts in air pollution monitoring, prevention, and health impacts. Research areas include the effects of indoor air pollutants on vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions. The center also explores effective ventilation strategies and conducts nationwide studies on indoor air pollution levels, stove usage, and health outcomes in Kenyan kitchens.

Arthur highlighted the completion of baseline surveys and kitchen performance tests among households using firewood, charcoal, and kerosene for cooking. Additionally, KEMRI has evaluated the benefits of using liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in informal settlement schools, focusing on environmental impact, time savings, cost efficiency, and health improvements. The evaluation of energy-efficient pots for household cooking has also been completed.

Despite these efforts, significant challenges remain. Arthur pointed out that Sh16 billion is required to implement the Kenya Household Air Pollution Prevention Strategy for 2024-2029. Limited equipment restricts the ability to collect comprehensive air quality data, and there is a lack of capacity to conduct air quality training across counties. Only 2,350 out of 130,000 community health promoters have been trained on hazardous air pollution, representing just 1.8% coverage.

Environmental Impact Assessments: A Critical Tool

Loice Kipkiror, a member of the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) board, discussed the role of Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIAs) in project planning. ESIAs are studies that evaluate the potential positive and negative impacts of a project on the environment and society before it begins. NEMA, the principal government body responsible for managing environmental issues in Kenya, has been conducting ESIA on various projects.

However, Kipkiror noted that the effectiveness of ESIA in Kenya depends on the quality of assessments and follow-through. She emphasized that mitigation measures may not always be properly implemented or monitored, leading to missed health benefits. In some cases, health impacts are given less attention compared to environmental concerns.

Public participation is crucial for meaningful ESIA outcomes. If communities are inadequately engaged, social and health concerns may be overlooked. Kipkiror stressed the importance of quality assessments, proper implementation of mitigation measures, project monitoring, and collaboration with other sectors, including health.

Innovations in Environmental Regulation

Amos Andama, another NEMA board member, highlighted the authority's efforts to combat pollution through technological advancements. NEMA has decentralized its services and leveraged technology to improve environmental management. These initiatives have earned the authority several awards in the sector.

Andama emphasized the need for collective responsibility in protecting the environment. “We only have one planet, and we must take care of the environment for both current and future generations,” he said.

Addressing the Challenges

The challenges identified by KEMRI and NEMA underscore the need for a multi-faceted approach to tackle air pollution. Strengthening monitoring systems, expanding training programs, and increasing funding for clean energy initiatives are essential steps. Collaboration between government agencies, researchers, and communities will be critical in ensuring that policies translate into tangible health and environmental benefits.