Health Ministry Sounds Alarm Over Lang’ata Cemetery Overcrowding and Health Risks
The Ministry of Health has issued a stark warning regarding the deteriorating condition of Lang’ata Cemetery, citing its overcapacity and neglect as potential triggers for a public health and safety crisis.
Appearing before the Parliamentary Committee on Implementation on Thursday, April 10, Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni painted a grim picture of the cemetery’s state, raising concerns over the spread of infectious diseases, environmental pollution, and criminal activity.
“The City County of Nairobi must ensure all activities at Lang’ata Cemetery comply with public health regulations to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, environmental pollution, and social distress,” Muthoni warned.
Critical Overcrowding and Calls for Expansion
A report presented by a select parliamentary committee confirmed that the cemetery is operating well beyond capacity, with poor maintenance exacerbating the situation.
Among the Ministry’s top recommendations is the reclamation of a five-acre parcel of land adjacent to the cemetery, currently under illegal occupation. The land is viewed as vital for expansion to alleviate congestion.
“Nairobi City County should urgently reclaim the grabbed land next to the cemetery. We advise that all necessary documentation be acquired to secure ownership and allow for expansion,” said Muthoni.
Security Concerns and Cultural Violations
Muthoni also urged the construction of a perimeter fence, citing rising incidents of crime and wildlife interference at the site. The cemetery has become a hotspot for such issues due to its open, unsecured layout.
This follows previous concerns raised in August 2023 by Rangwe MP Lilian Gogo, who lamented the mutilation of bodies buried in shallow graves by wild animals and claimed that some bodies were left unburied and decomposing in the open.
“It is unfortunate that when we expect our dead to rest, they do not, and instead, their bodies are mutilated by wild animals,” Gogo said.
“It is a problem when we have the stench of our dead coming from the backyards of where we live.”
Impending Closure if Action is Not Taken
Muthoni warned that if Nairobi County fails to act, the Ministry of Health will be forced to declare Lang’ata Cemetery a public health hazard, which could lead to immediate closure and further pressure on burial services across the capital.
This latest development underscores growing concerns around urban planning, land management, and public health infrastructure in Nairobi.
