MPS PROBE ALLEGED NUCLEAR WASTE DUMPING IN NORTH EASTERN KENYA AMID CANCER SURGE

A parliamentary committee has launched an urgent investigation into claims of illegal nuclear waste dumping in Kenya’s North Eastern region. This follows a disturbing rise in cancer cases, sparking fears of long-term health and environmental risks.

Members of Parliament are now probing claims that toxic nuclear waste may have been dumped in parts of North Eastern Kenya, raising alarm over a possible link to a growing number of cancer cases in the region.

The National Assembly’s Health and Environment committees jointly initiated the inquiry after local leaders and residents raised concerns about unexplained illnesses and abnormal spikes in cancer diagnoses.

Ø  “We cannot ignore the pain of our people. The patterns are worrying, and we must get to the bottom of this,” said Wajir South MP Mohamed Adow, who is part of the team leading the probe.

Locals have for years suspected that some remote areas in the region may have been used as dumping grounds for hazardous waste—possibly by foreign actors or rogue agencies—taking advantage of limited oversight and vast unregulated spaces.

Environmental experts have also backed calls for a forensic investigation, pointing to the need for soil, air, and water quality tests across suspected hotspots.

Ø  “If nuclear materials were indeed dumped here, the health consequences could last for generations,” warned Dr. Mercy Kamau, a public health toxicologist.

Preliminary data from local hospitals shows an unusual concentration of cancer-related deaths over the last decade—particularly rare cancers among young adults and children.

The probe comes amid renewed calls for stronger environmental governance and stricter border monitoring. Lawmakers are now pushing for the involvement of international watchdogs and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to help verify the claims.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Environment has pledged its full cooperation, saying no stone will be left unturned.

Ø  “We are committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring accountability, whether it involves private companies or foreign actors,” Environment CS Soipan Tuya said.

As the probe gains momentum, residents of North Eastern Kenya are anxiously awaiting answers—hoping the truth will bring justice, and above all, safety.