NEMA shuts abattoir over pollution

The National Environment Management Authority (Nema) has closed down the county's main slaughterhouse for discharging waste into Lake Victoria.

The abattoir serves hundreds of butcheries in the town and neighbouring urban centres. The slaughterhouse is situated on the shores of Lake Victoria.

In a letter to Homa Bay County Secretary Isiah Ogwe, acting Nema Director General Mamo B Mamo directed that the slaughterhouse be closed until all measures are put in place to prevent infiltration of waste into the lake.

Mr Mamo also directed that all waste illegally dumped in the area be cleaned up and disposed of within seven days. He further directed county veterinary officer to stop undertaking meat inspection at the facility.