Nairobi, 16 May 2025 – Residents from Mukuru’s informal settlements gathered at Mareba Health Centre for a strategic workshop under the #BreatheNairobi Campaign. This was to champion their right to clean air. Facilitated by SDI Kenya in collaboration with Kusudi Cause, GROOTS Kenya, NaPTA, and the Nairobi City County Government (Green Nairobi), the session served as a platform for grassroots voices to address rising air pollution and environmental injustice.
The event brought together residents from Mukuru kwa Njenga, Mukuru Viwandani, Mukuru kwa Reuben, and Mukuru Kayaba, who engaged in mapping local pollution sources and identifying community-led solutions to protect their health and environment. The workshop reinforced that clean air rights in Kenya must extend to all communities, especially those most affected.
Mukuru Air Quality: A Community in Crisis
Participants described worsening Mukuru air quality, citing smoke from nearby industries, open waste burning, blocked drainage systems, and the use of charcoal and kerosene as major contributors. They linked this pollution to high rates of asthma, bronchitis, eye irritation, and fatigue.
The health impacts were compounded by socio-economic challenges. Residents reported rising medical expenses, missed workdays, and school absenteeism. Concerns were raised over poor enforcement of environmental regulations in informal settlements.
Understanding Clean Air Rights in Kenya
Millicent from Kusudi Cause outlined global and national air quality standards. She introduced WHO guidelines on pollutants like particulate matter (PM₁₀), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and carbon monoxide (CO). In addition, Millicent reviewed Kenya’s legal framework led by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA).
The discussion connected international commitments, such as the Paris Agreement and Agenda 2063—with local advocacy for clean air rights in Kenya. However, community members voiced frustration over regulatory gaps and inadequate enforcement in settlements like Mukuru.
Government and Community Dialogue on Mukuru Air Quality
Officials from Green Nairobi and NaPTA joined a Q&A session to respond directly to community concerns. They highlighted the city’s efforts to improve Mukuru air quality, including air quality sensor deployment through the AirQo project, and the drafting of the Air Quality Act to guide enforcement and citizen engagement.
Government representatives acknowledged the disproportionate pollution burden on informal settlements and encouraged community involvement in air monitoring and reporting.
Digital Advocacy to Promote Clean Air Rights
In a session focused on digital tools, youth and grassroots organisers were trained on how to use social media and mobile platforms to advocate for cleaner air. They learned to document pollution, engage audiences, and pressure decision-makers through visual storytelling and citizen-led campaigns.
This session aimed to amplify local voices and ensure that the demand for clean air rights in Kenya reaches both the public and policymakers.
A Collective Push for Environmental Justice
The Breathe Cities Community Workshop proved that sustainable environmental change is possible when government, civil society, and local communities work together. The passion and knowledge shared by Mukuru residents highlighted the urgency of safeguarding their right to clean air.
As Nairobi’s air pollution challenges grow, the energy seen in Mukuru’s communities reflects a broader call.
The call? Clean air is a right and not a privilege.