By James Murimi - Reporter
Kenya, April 30, 2026 - The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has warned members of the public to avoid contact with water from sections of the Mlolongo–Athi Dam ecosystem following a suspected chemical discharge incident that has triggered urgent investigations.
In a statement issued on Thursday, KWS said the alert follows a report received on the morning of April 30, 2026, after officers detected unusual water conditions within the ecosystem.
“The Kenya Wildlife Service is assessing a suspected chemical discharge incident reported on the morning of 30th April 2026 in the Mlolongo Athi Dam ecosystem, raising serious environmental and public health concerns,” the agency said.
KWS officers observed abnormal inflows of foamy water entering the park through the upper Mlolongo drainage corridor, describing the water as highly unusual and potentially hazardous.
The agency noted that the water was characterized by “white, effervescent bubbles, continuous flow and unnatural coloration consistent with possible chemical contamination.”
Preliminary assessments suggest the discharge may be linked to upstream industrial activity areas, including zones near Orbit Chemical Industries Ltd, although authorities emphasized that investigations are still ongoing to establish the exact source.
KWS warned that the affected system feeds into major watercourses, heightening the risk of wider contamination downstream.
“The affected system feeds into the Mbagathi and Athi Rivers, placing Athi Dam a critical ecological and water resource at significant risk, alongside aquatic biodiversity and downstream water users, including communities, agriculture, and livestock,” the statement added.
More from Kenya
In response, KWS has activated a multi-agency emergency operation involving the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and the Water Resources Authority (WRA). The teams are conducting water sampling, laboratory analysis, and tracing upstream discharge points while assessing containment measures to prevent further spread.
The agency reiterated its warning to the public to avoid using or coming into contact with the affected waters, including fishing and livestock watering activities in the impacted sections.
At the same time, KWS issued a stern warning to industries operating within the catchment area.
“The discharge of untreated waste or hazardous substances into protected ecosystems is illegal and will attract strict enforcement action, including prosecution, fines, closure of facilities, and liability for environmental restoration,” the Service cautioned.
Investigations are ongoing, with KWS confirming that firm legal action will be taken against any party found responsible for the suspected contamination.