The Kenyan government is seeking financial assistance from the World Bank and the European Union to help fund a national program aimed at removing asbestos roofing from buildings across the country. This initiative comes as part of efforts to address long-standing public health concerns, since asbestos exposure has been linked to serious illnesses, including lung cancer and mesothelioma.
Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has instructed the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) to conduct a comprehensive mapping exercise to identify all public and private buildings that still have asbestos roofs. Many of these structures—including schools, hospitals, and government offices—were built decades ago, before the material was banned in 2006. The mapping will help determine the scale of the problem and guide the government’s plan for safe removal and disposal.
Asbestos was once a popular construction material in Kenya due to its durability and affordability. However, when the material ages or is disturbed, it releases fine fibres that, when inhaled, can cause severe respiratory diseases. Despite being outlawed nearly two decades ago, many buildings still have asbestos roofs because replacing them is expensive.
The government acknowledges that the cost of removal and replacement is a major barrier, especially for institutions with limited resources. For this reason, it is reaching out to international partners such as the World Bank and the European Union for funding support. The goal is to ensure that the process follows strict safety and environmental standards while easing the financial burden on affected communities.
NEMA has also been directed to set up designated disposal sites in various counties to ensure the hazardous material is handled and discarded safely. The planned program will not only involve removing and replacing asbestos roofing but also ensuring that the waste does not contaminate the environment during transportation or disposal.
Public health experts and environmental advocates have welcomed the move, describing it as an important step toward reducing cancer risks and protecting citizens from harmful exposure. They have, however, urged the government to combine funding with strict enforcement of environmental laws to ensure long-term safety.
If successful, the initiative—supported by international partners—will represent a major milestone in Kenya’s efforts to improve public health and environmental safety by completely phasing out asbestos roofing from buildings nationwide.
IMAGE COURTESY OF KENYA NEWS AGENCY
