Governor Mutula unveils taskforce to address Thange oil spill

Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr has unveiled a County Technical Working Team to assess the effects of oil spillage in Thange Ward, Kibwezi East Constituency.

The spill, which was first detected in 2015, has continued to affect the neighbouring community and the environment in Kibwezi East sub-county, leading to serious health risks among them respiratory issues and skin conditions.

It has also caused environmental damage such as water contamination, loss of aquatic life and led to reduced soil fertility.

While addressing a public forum in Thange market on Tuesday, the county boss called on the newly unveiled team to accelerate their investigation into the effects of the oil spillage and submit an interim report within a month.

“Let’s refrain from prioritizing personal and political interests at the expense of affected residents and the damaged local ecosystems,” stated the Governor.

The eight-member team consists of technical officers from the environment, water, livestock, public health and water analysis sectors.

He said the team will play a key role in establishing the foundation for filing a formal complaint and determining the way forward for the affected community.

Governor Mutula was accompanied by County Secretary Dr. Justin Kyambi, CECMs Nicholas Nzioka (Devolution), Japheth Mang’oka (Lands), Dr. Paul Musila (Health), Eng. John Kieti (Water), County Attorney Stanley Nthiwa, and area MCAs Eric Katumo namely Harrison Mwanzia, and Brian Nzoka.