Public health officers in Kenya have urged the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) to take more stringent measures in protecting citizens from harmful products, particularly banned pesticides.

Speaking during the signing of a recognition agreement with Machakos County government at Machakos level five referral hospital, the National Secretary General of the Kenya Environmental Health and Public Health Practitioners Union Brown Achira said Kenya must not become a dumping ground for hazardous chemicals that pose serious health risks to its citizens.

“Kenya should not become a dumping site for banned pesticides,” said Achira.

Achira expressed optimism about the future of public health in Machakos following the commitment from Governor Wavinya Ndeti to establish a food and water quality laboratory at the hospital.

“This facility is set to conduct chemical analysis, eliminating the need for public health officers to travel to Nairobi for such services.” He said adding that, “These crucial health services can respond more swiftly and effectively to potential hazards in food and water, directly concerning the health of the community.”

Machakos County Public Service Board Chairman Albanus Mutisya acknowledged the legal formalities that allowed the new union to represent its members across various levels of county government.

He emphasized that unions serve to protect their members’ interests rather than merely advocating for strikes.

The event was also graced by Machakos County Health Minister Justus Kasivu, Chief Officers Rashid Kala and Simba Mwako reinforcing the collaborative spirit needed to tackle public health challenges.