Disease outbreak 'looming' in Imenti

Residents of Marathi in Githongo show where the sewage water is directed from the houses. [Olivia Murithi, Standard]

Traders and residents of Githongo shopping centre in Central Imenti have protested lack of a sewerage system in the town.

Residential plots in the town release sewage into the streets.

“The open sewers are a health risk, especially because they are located next to houses and eateries. They are also a fertile breeding ground for mosquitoes,” said Isaiah Kirera, who runs a clinic at the centre.

Joseph Kirimi, a butcher, said plot owners had contributed to the problem by failing to install proper sewerage.

“We need the public health department to act fast to avert an outbreak,” he said.

Marathi Location Chief Douglas Muthamia conceded that the shopping centre that has about 6,000 residents had no sewerage system.

Abothuguchi Ward Rep Patrick Muthuri called for urgent action by the Public Health Department.

“The population in Githongo has grown, and needs a proper drainage system,” he said.