Nairobi Assembly Health Committee opposes plans to instantly close Langa'ta

The Nairobi County Assembly Health Committee has opposed the national government's call to close Lang'ata Cemetery without providing alternative land. This follows remarks by Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni, who appeared before the National Assembly and noted that a committee had recommended the cemetery, which sits on 100 acres, be degazetted to protect public health.

The PS emphasised the need to implement the committee's recommendations to promote a healthier and safer society. However, the Nairobi Assembly Committee disagreed, stating that any closure must follow proper procedures and include an alternative burial site.

"We can't just close it; we need to provide a place for the departed, as about 20 people are buried there daily," said Maurice Ochieng, the Committee chairperson

Woodley Kenyatta Golf Course MCA Davidson Ngibuini stressed the importance of addressing the issue of shallow graves and finding a solution, suggesting a policy should be put in place before taking further action.

Another member, Lily Kidenda, noted that it will be unfair to close the cemetery without informing the Nairobi residents about an alternative.

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“Because death does not wait for anyone, there will be people dying and they need to be buried, and it will be critical that the procedures are followed,” she said.

In its report, the National Assembly Committee recommended that the City County acquire new land, appeal for extension into the Ngong forest, or reclaim land where a private estate was built around the cemetery.

In her presentation to the national Assembly,  PS Muthoni urged Nairobi County to reclaim land around Langata cemetery, which was grabbed for its expansion.

“We advise the Nairobi county government to obtain all the necessary documentation for the land,” she said.

She also emphasised that burials at the cemetery should comply with public health regulations to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, social stigma, and environmental pollution.

The task force report recommended building a fence around the cemetery to prevent encroachment by intruders and animals. It also raised concerns about burying bodies on top of others and shallow graves, which pose health risks, urging the county government to halt these practices.