The residents of Chasimba in Kilifi South Constituency have called for full community involvement and comprehensive measures to mitigate the social and environmental impacts of the proposed Ksh 12.8 billion Mashujaa Cement Factory.
While the project promises to generate numerous job opportunities, the local community insists on being educated about the potential health and biodiversity effects.
Speaking at a recent community meeting, residents warned that without adequate dust mitigation measures, many could suffer from health conditions, drawing parallels to a similar plant in Bondora, Kaloleni constituency.
There are also concerns about possible displacement and the adverse impact on Mawe Meru (black stones), which the National Museum seeks to include in the list of UNESCO world heritage sites.
Ben Sanga, a concerned resident, emphasized the need for the government and Mashujaa Cement Q&M PLC to provide a clear explanation of the project’s benefits and the steps to address environmental concerns.
“We need transparency on how this project will benefit us and what measures will be taken to mitigate the environmental impacts,” he said.
Julius Sanga echoed these sentiments, expressing disappointment over the lack of community involvement. “We are eagerly waiting for the project, but we feel excluded. The project owners should prioritize building a hospital and other essential amenities before setting up the plant,” he stated.
Rebson Kalua, another resident, highlighted the potential job opportunities but stressed the need for proper public participation. “This project should be expedited, but it is crucial for the implementers to engage with the community to clear any doubts,” he asserted.
Lilian Pendo and Bandari Nyale shared their fears about the environmental impact, specifically the dust and potential structural damage due to stone blasting. “We are worried that the area will become dusty and our buildings might develop cracks,” they said.
Human rights activist Victor Kaudo from the Malindi Community Justice Centre criticized the informal communication about the factory, urging formal engagements. “Residents have been receiving information at funerals. We need structured dialogues for full community embrace of the project,” he remarked.
Elphic Tusi, Executive Director of One One Million Trees 4 Kilifi, questioned how the company was granted an operational license without full community awareness. He cited adverse effects from other companies in the region, such as dust emissions, rusting roofs, and cracked walls.
“We cannot risk having another company before these issues are addressed,” he warned.
The Mashujaa Cement Q&M PLC plans to establish a large integrated cement plant for clinker and cement production. However, residents fear they might suffer similar fates as their counterparts in Takaungu and Kaloleni, where other cement factories have been set up.