Residents of Amazon and Mandizini informal settlements in Mombasa County are up in arms over an ongoing construction project they say has disrupted drainage and sanitation systems, causing severe flooding and public health risks.
The project, reportedly undertaken by the Mombasa County Water and Sanitation Services Department, has blocked community toilet drainage systems and ocean water channels, leading to the flooding of homes during high tide. Residents claim the project began without any form of public participation or proper communication from the county authorities.
Veronica Maringa, a resident of Mandizini, said locals have been left in the dark about the purpose and potential impact of the construction.
“We are facing serious problems. The construction is creeping close to our houses, and no one has informed us about its purpose or effects on our community,” she lamented.
Her concerns were echoed by Kombora Shume from Amazon village, who noted that the blockage of communal toilets has caused waste to flow back into homes.
“Our toilets have been blocked, and waste is now flowing back. Last night, ocean water entered several houses because the drainage channels were sealed. Children missed school because their uniforms and books got soaked,” he said.
Mandizini Village Elder, Ibrahim Mwinyi, urged the county government to include residents in the project’s planning and execution processes.
“We are not opposed to development, but we must be informed through public participation. The secrecy is causing fear and anxiety,” he said.
Human rights activist Rocky Peter warned that the situation could lead to outbreaks of cholera and typhoid if not urgently addressed. He called on the county government to involve the affected communities and include them in the Ardhi Fund initiative, which supports equitable access to land and housing for informal settlements.
As tensions rise, residents continue to demand transparency, consultation, and immediate solutions to the flooding and sanitation crisis threatening their livelihoods.
