EIA 1131eastern Industrial Parkinfinity EIA

Acknowledgement
The EIA firm would like to take this opportunity to thank various persons
provided support, information and assistance in preparation of this project study.
The EIA firm is particularly thankful to the proprietors of Abackufukffkhf,vyvhus
Property Ltd, and Tiercel Group International Ltd (Architects), for giving us the
opportunity to serve them and their inestimable input and support in the
preparation of the project study.
The EIA Lead Expert is also thankful to Mr. Ashok R. Shah and his team for their
key role in the projects management inputs and co-ordination in the process of
the EIA study’s production.
The Lead Expert is also grateful to the residents of Githioko area, particularly the
project site neighbours for their views and inputs during the EIA exercise.
EIA STUDY REPORT OF THE PROPOSED INDUSTRIAL PARK DEVELOPMENT, AT GITHIOKO AREA, OFF EASTERN BY-PASS ROAD, ON PLOT L.R. No. 11522,
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ACRONYMS
0
Degrees Celsius
C
CBD Central Business District
CLPs Consents, Licenses and Permits
CSR Corporate Social Responsibility
EA Environmental Audit
EAC East African Community
EAM Environmental Management Company
EHS Environmental Health and Safety
EIA Environmental Impact Assessment
EMCA Environmental Management and Co-ordination
Act
EMP Environmental Management Plan
HCFC Hydro-chlorofluorocarbon
HWM Household Waste Management
KBS Kenya Bureau of Standards
KM Kilometres
KPLC Kenya Power and Lighting Company
KVA Kilo Volts Amperes
NCC Nairobi County Council
NEC National Environmental Council
NEMA National Environment Management Authority
PPM Parts Per Million
SHE Safety Health and Environment
SWM Solid Waste Management
TOR Terms of Reference
UNEP United Nations Environmental Programme
WRMA Water Resources Management Authority
EIA STUDY REPORT OF THE PROPOSED INDUSTRIAL PARK DEVELOPMENT, AT GITHIOKO AREA, OFF EASTERN BY-PASS ROAD, ON PLOT L.R. No. 11522,
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TAB LE O FC O N T E N T S
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ................................................................................................................................................... 2
ACRONYMS ............................................................................................................................................................................ 3
T A B L E O F C O N T E N
T S ........................................................................................... 4 L I S T O
F T A B L E
S ................................................................................................................ 7L I S T O
F P I C T U R E
S ..................................................................................................... 7 E X E C U T
I V E S U M M A R
Y .......................................................................................... 8 1.
BACKGROUND ................................................................................................................................................... 11
1.1.
BACKGROUND ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 11
1.2 JUSTIFICATION OF THE PROPOSED
PROJECT. .................................................................................................................................................... 12
2 GENERAL DESCRIPTION ................................................................................................................................ 16
2.0 PROJECT
DESCRIPTION ............................................................................................................................................................................... 16
2.1 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION
MEASURES .................................................................................................................................................. 18
3 CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES ....................................................................................................................... 20

3.0 BACKGROUND AND RATIONALE FOR AN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT ..................................................................... 20
3.1
OBJECTIVES: ........................................................................................................................................................................................
......... 20 3.2 NEED FOR THE
PROJECT ............................................................................................................................................................................ 21
3.3 NATIONAL INDUSTRIAL POLICY .............................................................................................. ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT
DEFINED. 3.4 SCOPE AND CONTENT OF
PROJECT ........................................................................................................................................................... 24 3.5 DUTIES
OF THE PROPONENT ..................................................................................................................................................................... 24
3.6 DUTIES OF THE
CONTRACTOR .................................................................................................................................................................. 25
4 POLICY, INSTITUTIONAL AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK............................................................................. 26
4.0
INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................................................................................................
........ 26 4.1 ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS IN
KENYA ............................................................................................................................................... 26
4.2 POLICY
FRAMEWORK .......................................................................................................................................................................... 26
4.3.1 National Housing
Policy ...................................................................................................................................................................... 26
4.3 INSTITUTIONAL
FRAMEWORK ....................................................................................................................................................... 27
4.3.1 National Environment Management Authority
(NEMA) .................................................................................................................. 27
4.3.2 Environmental Management and Coordination Act (EMCA),
1999 ............................................................................................ 27
4.3.3 Provincial and District Environment
Committees ............................................................................................................................ 27
4.3.4 Public Complaints
Committee ......................................................................................................................................................... 27
4.3.5 Nairobi City
Council ...................................................................................................................................................................... 28
4.3.6 Nairobi Water & Sewerage
Company ............................................................................................................................................ 28
EIA STUDY REPORT OF THE PROPOSED INDUSTRIAL PARK DEVELOPMENT, AT GITHIOKO AREA, OFF EASTERN BY-PASS ROAD, ON PLOT L.R. No. 11522, NJIRU.
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4.4 NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL TRIBUNAL .............................................................................................................................................
28
4.5 LEGAL AND REGULATORY
FRAMEWORK ............................................................................................................................... 28 4.5.1 The Environmental
(Impact Assessment and Audit) Regulations, 2003 .............................................................................................. 29 4.5.2 Waste
Management Regulations, 2006 ................................................................................................................................................ 29
4.5.3 EMCA – Noise & Excessive Vibration Pollution (Control) Regulations Of
2009 ........................................................................... 30 4.5.4 Water Quality Regulations,
2006 ........................................................................................................................................................ 30 4.5.5 Public Health Act
(Cap. 242) ............................................................................................................................................................. 31 4.5.6 Physical
Planning Act, 1999 ............................................................................................................................................................... 31 4.5.7
Local Authority Act (Cap 265). .........................................................................................................................................................
31
4.5.8 Water Act,
2002 ................................................................................................................................................................................. 32
4.5.9 Building Code
2000 ............................................................................................................................................................................. 32
4.5.10 Occupational Safety and Health Act,
2007 ......................................................................................................................................... 32
4.5.11
Health .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 34
4.5.12
Safety ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 34
4.5.13
Welfare ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 34
4.5.14 Wayleaves Act Cap
292 ...................................................................................................................................................................... 34
4.5.15 Registration of Titles Act Cap
281 ...................................................................................................................................................... 35
5 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT ................................................................................................................. 36
5.0
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 36
5.1 PROJECT
LOCATION ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 36
5.2 SKETCH 1: DIRECTIONAL SKETCH TO THE PROPOSED
SITE. ................................................................................................................. 36
5.3 AREA LAND USE
ZONATIONS. .................................................................................................................................................................. 37
5.4 DESIGN OF THE
PROJECT ........................................................................................................................................................................... 37
5.5 THE COMMERCIAL HOUSING’S DESIGN (WITH REFERENCE TO THE ARCHITECTURAL DRAWINGS ATTACHED IN THE
APPENDIX) ............................................................................................................................................................................................
........................ 37
5.6 OTHER FEATURES RELATED TO THE PROPOSED EASTERN INDUSTRIAL PARK .............................................................................. 38
5.7
INFRASTRUCTURE ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 38
5.8 PARKING AREA AND
DRIVEWAY ............................................................................................................................................................. 38
5.9
GUARDHOUSE ......................................................................................................................................................................................
........ 39 5.10 SOLID WASTE AND WASTE
WATER ..................................................................................................................................................... 39
5.11 DRAINAGE
SYSTEM ............................................................................................................................................................................... 39 5.12
RIPARIAN RESERVE ..............................................................................................................................................................................
40 5.13 SERVICE PATH FOR OTHER DEVELOPED
PLOTS ............................................................................................................................... 40
5.14 ELECTRICAL
SYSTEM ............................................................................................................................................................................ 40
5.15 WATER RETICULATION
SYSTEM.......................................................................................................................................................... 40
5.16 NEED FOR WATER HARVESTING AND STORAGE ............................................................................................................................ 41
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5.17 STORM WATER RUN-
OFF ....................................................................................................................................................................... 41
5.18
LANDSCAPING ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 41
5.19 PRE-CONSTRUCTION
INVESTIGATIONS .............................................................................................................................................. 41 5.20 SOURCING AND
TRANSPORTATION OF BUILDING MATERIALS ...................................................................................................... 42
5.21 STORAGE OF
MATERIALS ..................................................................................................................................................................... 42
5.22 EXCAVATION
WORKS ............................................................................................................................................................................ 42
5.23 EXCAVATION AND FOUNDATION WORKS .........................................................................................................................................
42
5.24 MASONRY, CONCRETE WORK AND RELATED ACTIVITIES .............................................................................................................. 43
5.25 STRUCTURAL STEEL
WORKS ................................................................................................................................................................. 43
5.26
ROOFING .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 43
5.27 ELECTRICAL
WORK................................................................................................................................................................................ 43
5.28
PLUMBING ...........................................................................................................................................................................................
.... 43 5.29
LANDSCAPING ......................................................................................................................................................................................
. 43 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT’S OPERATIONAL
ACTIVITIES ............................................................................................................................... 43
5.30
OCCUPATION .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 43
5.31 SOLID WASTE AND WASTE WATER MANAGEMENT ........................................................................................................................ 43
5.32
CLEANING .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 44
5.33 GENERAL REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE .........................................................................................................................................
44 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT’S DECOMMISSIONING
ACTIVITIES ....................................................................................................................... 44
5.34 DEMOLITION
WORKS ............................................................................................................................................................................. 44 5.35
DISMANTLING OF EQUIPMENT AND FIXTURES ................................................................................................................................ 44
5.36 SITE
RESTORATION ................................................................................................................................................................................ 45
6 BASELINE INFORMATION OF THE STUDY AREA ................................................................................... 46

6.0
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 46
6.1 THE SITE’S SPECIFIC GPS
COORDINATES............................................................................................................................................... 46
6.2
CLIMATE ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 46
6.2.1 Average daily
temperatures ................................................................................................................................................................... 46
6.2.2 Average Humidity
Values ................................................................................................................................................................... 47
6.2.3 Average Rain
Amounts........................................................................................................................................................................ 47
6.2.4 Average
Winds ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 48
6.2.5 Average
Sunshine ................................................................................................................................................................................. 48
6.2.6
Infrastructure ......................................................................................................................................................................................
.. 48 6.2.7
Population ..........................................................................................................................................................................................
.. 48
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6.2.8 Economic
Activities .............................................................................................................................................................................. 48
7 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ................................................................................................................................ 50
7.0
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 50
7.1 ISSUES
RAISED .............................................................................................................................................................................................
50 Employment
creation ...............................................................................................................................................................................................
......... 50 7.1.1 Noise and
dust ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 50 7.1.2
Power, Water & sewer system
demand ................................................................................................................................................. 50 7.1.3 Impacts of
Increased population on the neighbourhood ........................................................................................................................... 50 7.2
POSITIVE
IMPACTS: ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 50
7.3 AESTHETIC
IMPACTS .................................................................................................................................................................................. 51
7.4 DECENTRALIZATION OF THE OTHER INDUSTRIAL CENTRES .............................................................................................................
51
7.5 CREATION OF OTHER BUSINESS
AVENUES ........................................................................................................................................... 51
8 POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ................................................................................................ 52

8.1
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 52
8.2 NEGATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES .................................................................................... 52
8.2.1 Clearance of the
site .............................................................................................................................................................................. 52
8.2.2 Soil
disturbance .................................................................................................................................................................................... 52
8.2.3 Dust
generation .................................................................................................................................................................................... 52
8.2.4 Solid waste
generation ........................................................................................................................................................................... 52 8.2.5
Noise and
vibration .............................................................................................................................................................................. 52
8.2.6 Pollution of Njiru
River ....................................................................................................................................................................... 53
8.2.7 Water
use ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 53
8.2.8 Energy
consumption .............................................................................................................................................................................. 53
8.2.9 Extraction and use of building
materials............................................................................................................................................... 53
8.2.10 Exhaust
emissions ................................................................................................................................................................................ 54
8.2.11 Risks of accidents and injuries to
workers ............................................................................................................................................. 54
8.3 POSITIVE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES ..................................................................................... 54
8.3.1 Provision of market for supply of building
materials .............................................................................................................................. 54
8.3.2 Increased business
opportunities ............................................................................................................................................................. 54
8.3.3 Creation of employment
opportunities .................................................................................................................................................... 54
8.4 NEGATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF OPERATIONAL ACTIVITIES ...................................................................................... 54
8.4.1 Solid waste
generation ........................................................................................................................................................................... 54
8.4.2 Water
use ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 55
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8.4.3 Increased demand for
sanitation ............................................................................................................................................................ 55
8.4.4 Increased storm water
flow..................................................................................................................................................................... 55
8.4.5 Fire and
Noise ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 55
8.5 POSITIVE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF OPERATIONAL ACTIVITIES ......................................................................................... 55
8.5.1 Provision of Commercial Housing space
facilities ................................................................................................................................... 55
8.5.2 Employment
opportunities..................................................................................................................................................................... 56
8.5.3 Revenue to national and local
governments ............................................................................................................................................ 56
8.5.4 Improved
security .................................................................................................................................................................................. 56
8.5.5 Business growth in the
area ................................................................................................................................................................... 56
8.5.6 Decongestion of the nearby urban
centres ............................................................................................................................................... 56
8.6 NEGATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF DECOMMISSIONING ACTIVITIES ............................................................................. 56
8.6.1 Solid
waste ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 56
8.6.2 These may
include: ................................................................................................................................................................................ 56
8.6.3
Dust ..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 57
8.6.4 Noise and
vibration .............................................................................................................................................................................. 57
8.7 POSITIVE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF DECOMMISSIONING ACTIVITIES ................................................................................. 57
8.7.1 These may
include: ................................................................................................................................................................................ 57
8.7.2
Rehabilitation ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 57
8.7.3 Employment
Opportunities ................................................................................................................................................................... 57
9 ANALYSIS OF PROJECT ALTERNATIVES .................................................................................................... 58
9.1 ALTERNATIVE SITE (RELOCATION
OPTION) ......................................................................................................................................... 58
9.2 ALTERNATIVE
DESIGN ............................................................................................................................................................................. 58
9.3 ANALYSIS OF THE CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS AND TECHNOLOGY ............................................................................................... 58
9.4 SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT ALTERNATIVES ...................................................................................................................................
58
9.5 NO ALTERATION
ALTERNATIVE ............................................................................................................................................................ 59
10 IMPACTS MITIGATION AND MONITORING .............................................................................................. 60
10.1
INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 60
10.2 MITIGATION OF CONSTRUCTION PHASE IMPACTS ............................................................................................................................
60
10.2.1 Minimization of run-off and soil
erosion ............................................................................................................................................... 60
10.2.2 Minimization of construction
waste ....................................................................................................................................................... 60
10.2.3 Reduction of dust generation and
emission ............................................................................................................................................. 60
10.2.4 Minimization of noise and
vibration ..................................................................................................................................................... 61
10.2.5 Minimization of water
use .................................................................................................................................................................... 61
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10.2.6 Reduction of energy
consumption............................................................................................................................................................ 61 10.2.7
Efficient sourcing and use of raw
materials ............................................................................................................................................ 61 10.2.8 Minimization of
exhaust emissions ....................................................................................................................................................... 61
10.2.9 Reduction of risks of accidents and injuries to
workers........................................................................................................................... 61
10.3 MITIGATION OF OPERATION PHASE
IMPACTS ................................................................................................................................... 62 10.3.1 Ensuring efficient solid
waste management ............................................................................................................................................ 62 10.3.2 Ensure
efficient water use ...................................................................................................................................................................... 62
10.3.3 Ensure efficient energy
consumption ....................................................................................................................................................... 62 10.3.4
Minimization of sewage
release.............................................................................................................................................................. 62 10.3.5 Fire safety
measures .............................................................................................................................................................................. 62
10.4 MITIGATION OF DECOMMISSIONING PHASE IMPACTS ......................................................................................................................
62 10.4.1 Efficient solid waste
management .......................................................................................................................................................... 62 10.4.2
Reduction of dust
concentration ............................................................................................................................................................. 62
10.4.3 Minimization of noise and
vibration ..................................................................................................................................................... 62
11 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT/MONITORING PLAN .................................................................... 64
11.1
INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................................................................................................
.. 64 11.2 CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATIONAL PHASE
EMP .......................................................................................................................... 64 11.3 DECOMMISSIONING
PHASE .................................................................................................. ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
12 AUXILLIARY INFORMATION ........................................................................................................................ 74
12.1
BUDGET ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 75
12.2 MONITORING
GUIDELINES .................................................................................................................................................................. 75
12.3
STUDYING ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 76
12.4 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS ..........................................................................................................................................
76
13 APPENDICES: .................................................................................................................................................... 77 14
REFERENCES: ................................................................................................................................................... 78 15
SIGNATORIES: .................................................................................................................................................. 79
LI S T O FTAB LE S
Table 1: Quality standards for sources of domestic

water ................................................................................................................. 31 Table 4: Average Daily
Temperature in Nairobi City. .................................................................................................................... 47 Table
5: Mean Relative Humidity Values
(%). .............................................................................................................................. 47 Table 6: The average
rainfall (mm) for each month of the year, based on the records for 50 years. ......................................................
48 Table 3: List of neighbouring participants interviewed during the exercise. ................................... Error!
Bookmark not defined. Table 4: Environmental Monitoring/Management
Plan.................................................................................................................. 67
Table 5: Environmental Management/Monitoring Plan for the Decommissioning Phase of Proposed Eastern
Industrial Park. . Error! Bookmark not defined.
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Table 6: Summary of the Project's Bills of
Quantities. ..................................................................................................................... 75
LISTOFPICTURES
Picture 1: The site’s view(above and below) as focused from the hilly
side. .......................................................................................... 20 Picture 2: Other views of the
site. ..................................................................................................................................................... 21 Picture 3:
High voltage Electricity transporting pylons on the lower side of the
site. ............................................................................ 35 Picture 5: Motorists using the newly constructed
Eastern bypass, the site’s main access road, about 3kms from the site. ...................... 37 Picture 6: The site’s
only access road, passing through Githioko estate, from the main Eastern bypass ...............................................
39 Picture 7: The site’s access road diverting the main Eastern Bypass just at “County Club” restaurant, down
through Githioko Estate.
.........................................................................................................................................................................
.................... 40 Picture 8: The existing borehole, accessed by the proponent's team and other
consultants .................................................................... 41 Picture 9: Gatharaini river, the boundary line
separating Nariobi and Kiambu counties on the lower side of the site. ........................ 42 Picture 10: Existing
Sewerline manholes in the site's vicinity, from which the project's sewer system will be
connected. ........................ 44
Picture 11: Reliable power source point along the plot from which the project's will be
sourced. ........................................................... 53
EXECUTIVESUMMARY
The Kenyan economy has generally undergone mixed experiences with peaks and troughs at various
periods. Implementation of various policy to initiatives in the Economic Recovery Strategy saw the
economy make a remarkable recovery over the period 2003-2007.Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
grew from 2.9% in 2003 to 7.0% in 2007 or by an average of 5.3% over the period. The economic growth
targets set for the period 2008-2012 in the First Medium Term Plan under vision 2030 were, however not
met due to several challenges and constraints. The economy was expected to grow from 4.5% in 2008 to
8.7%, 9.4% and 10.0% in 2010, 2011, and 2012 respectively. However, actual economic outturn shows
that the growth rate in 2012 was only
4.6% and is projected to grow by 5.7% in 2013 and 6.0% in 2014.These growth rates are well below
10%growth rate that will underpin the anticipated transformation of the economy to Newly Industrialized
Counties status.
With a view to providing a hassle free, secure environment with world class infrastructure including roads,
waste management, telecommunication, and sufficient power and water supply in which industries and
manufacturers can move in and set up their projects without having to look for such essentials, hence
speeding up industrial projects, Abacus Property Ltd intends to put an Industrial Park at the above
mentioned piece of land located within Njiru area at Githioko Estate along river Gatharaini. This in turn
will create thousands of jobs and have multiplier effects on the economy as well as bringing us closer to
our Vision 2030 of a prosperous nation with a higher standard of living.
In their bid comply with the stipulated environment requirements, a registered Environmental Impact
Assessment firm was approached by the proponent, to carry out an Environmental Impact Assessment for
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proposed Eastern Industrial Park and its accompaniments on Plot L.R. No. 11522 measuring
approximately 200 Acres Off Eastern by-pass road within Njiru area, Nairobi County. This complies with
the Legal requirement stipulated in the Environmental Management and Coordination Act 1999 and the
subsequent Legal supplement of 2003.
An Environmental Impact Assessment study was carried out and the study handed to NEMA on 10 th
January 2014 an assigned reference NEMA/EIA/PSR/1518. On review, the Authority saw the need to
conduct a thorough Environmental Assessment Study to further address any possible impacts from this
project. The sheer magnitude of the project with a possibility of diverse industrial possibilities necessitated
the study.
The proponent is required to present this study in order to comply with the Environment Management
Coordination Act 1999 and in particular part II of the Environmental (Impact Assessment and Audit)
Regulations, 2003. The study has provided a summary statement of the likely environmental effects of the
proposed project.
Justification of this kind of project is shortages of well-structured modern industrial buildings in Kenya.
The project objective is to build Eastern Industrial Parks for business purposes. The scope of EIA study is
to identify impacts likely to be caused to the environment, public health and socio-economic well-being.
The methodologies for EIA study were environmental screening, environmental scoping, desktop studies,
site visits and public hearing and finally study writing.
The economic recovery strategy for wealth and employment creation on the other hand aims at giving
Kenyans a better deal in their lives and in their struggle to build a modern and prosperous nation. It aims to
empower Kenyans and provide them with a democratic political atmosphere under which all citizens can
be free to work hard and engage in productive activities to improve their standards of living. This
Environmental Impact Assessment Study report examined the potential positive and negative impacts of
the project on the immediate surroundings with due regard to all the phases from construction, occupation
and decommissioning. It encompassed all aspects pertaining to the physical, ecological, socio-cultural,
health and safety conditions at the site and its environs during and after construction. Environment, Health
and Safety (EHS) section addresses environmental, health and safety concerns during projects’ cycle. The
main objective of the EHS on the proposed project is to develop guidelines for protecting, managing and
responding, processes, situations/conditions that might compromise health, safety and security of workers
and ecological wellbeing.
To avoid or reduce negative environmental impacts, mitigation measures were proposed and an
environmental management plan (EMP) formulated. The proponent is also expected to observe
recommendations in the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and carry out annual environmental
audits once the project is in operation.
All solid waste materials and debris resulting from construction activities must be disposed off at
approved dumpsites. The wastes should be properly segregated and separated to encourage recycling of
some useful waste materials; i.e. some excavated stone materials can be used as backfills.
All construction materials and especially sand, gravel, hardcore and wood must be sourced/procured from
legalized dealers.
Construction activities must be undertaken only during the day i.e. between 0800 hours to 1700 hours.
This will minimize disturbance to the general public within the proximity of the site/project especially
within the vicinity
Traffic on the access road to the site should be controlled and informed during construction and especially
when heavy trucks are turning in and out of the site. This will ensure that no accidents are caused by the
site’s activities.
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During construction, all loose soils must be compacted to prevent any erosion by wind or water. Other
appropriate soil erosion control measures can be adapted. Any stockpiles of earth should be enclosed,
covered or sprinkled with water during dry or windy conditions to minimize generation of rust particles
into the air.
The development must be approved by the relevant Government Departments i.e. Physical planning,
Ministry of Lands and Housing, health etc. The proponent should therefore follow the guidelines as set by
the departments to safeguard the general public and observe environmental management principles during
construction and operation phases of the proposed development.
It is important that warning/informative signs (bill boards) be erected at the site. These should indicate the
operation hours and when works are likely to be started and completed.
Once earthworks have been done, restoration of the worked areas should be carried out immediately by
backfilling, professional landscaping/leveling and planting of low grass in open areas), flowers and
suitable tree species.
Sufficient supply of water is a very paramount factor in this type of commercial setup
therefore the project
Proponent should look into modalities aimed at enhancing water supply to the proposed scheme and
also give a hand in upgrading water supply systems in the neighborhood. Nairobi Water & Sewerage
Company’s water supply system should be upgraded and water sourced from reliable sources.
Rainwater harvesting systems should be provided as well as standard storage systems to every office floor
unit; to enhance collection of the runoff generated from the roof catchments. We propose a borehole to be
drilled to supplement water supply by after approval from the relevant Authorities.
Drains will be properly designed, installed and regularly maintained to prevent storm water (run-off) from
accumulating within the site spreading to the neighborhood. These must effectively drain the storm water
from the premise into the existing public drainage system to be developed along the access road.
Proper and regular maintenance of construction machinery and equipment will reduce emission of
hazardous fumes and noise resulting from friction of rubbing metal bodies.
Heavy construction activities should be limited (or avoided) during the rainy season to minimize the
chances of soil degradation (soil erosion).
Maintenance activities must be carried out in service bay to reduce chances of oils or grease or other
maintenance materials, from coming into contact with environment (water or soil).
Wastewater from such areas must be refrained from coming into contact with solid mass or water bodies
as it contains oil/grease spills.
Used and new oils must be handled and stored appropriately to avoid oil leaks and spills on
the site.
Sewerage system must be properly designed within the site and effectively connected to the bio-digester
system. Design specifications must be followed during installation. Standard cleanliness and waste
disposal facilities at construction site and during occupation must be maintained.
Workers should be provided with complete personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety gear. They
should have working boots, complete overalls, helmets, gloves, earmuffs, nose masks, goggles etc. A fully
equipped first aid kit must be provided within the site.
The contractor must have workmen’s compensation cover; the contractor is required to comply with
workmen’s compensation Act as well as other relevant ordinance, regulations and Union Agreement. The
contractor must provide adequate security during the construction period and especially during the night
when there are no construction activities.
A complete firefighting system must be provided after completion of the project. The equipment is clearly
provided in the design plan, and in the study. This must be installed or provided at strategic points.
Since the proposed site is located within an area with no rich natural resources, apart from the improvised
greenery, whose total effect to the surroundings could not be adverse and noting that the intended
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development and use of the facility will have no adverse effects on the surrounding areas. The general
steps followed during the assessment were as follows:
Environment screening, in which the project was identified as among those requiring environmental
impact assessment under schedule 2 of EMCA, 1999
Environmental scoping that provided the key environmental issues
Desktop studies and interviews
Physical inspection of the site and surrounding areas
EIA Public participation via the use of questionnaires and a public hearing
In conclusion this Environmental Impact Assessment Study report confirmed the finding from the
EIA report. The project has no major impacts on the environment and is recommended for
approval. However, in order to mitigate possible adverse effects for individual tenants of the
Industrial park, it is recommended that each individual tenant carries out a separate EIA on their
specific line of product.
1. BACKGROUND
1.1. Background
The proposed project site is at the Njiru area on the North Eastern side, about 35 kilometres from Nairobi
City centre.
Along the new Thika super highway and the Eastern bypass are some of the fastest growing areas of
Nairobi. The tide of industrial development on Outer Ring Rd, Juja area and Ruiru area now seems
unstoppable with the radical overhaul of its roads. Building an industrial park along this road which is
secure, has world class infrastructure, government incentives to industries and manufactures and offers
other amenities and facilities directly supporting such industries will solve this problem and help faster
realisation of boosting industrial activity in our country. Abacus Property Consultant Ltd. will target a wide
range of customers segments that will buy and develop the serviced plots. These will include heavy and
light industries and manufacturing plants, and wholesale distribution outlets. As the commercial area
develops more segments including banks, shopping centres, retail outlets, etc will then move into the park.
The initial focus will be on servicing the undeveloped land with road access, power supply and water
supply. It will then be divided into smaller plots which will all be serviced with the same and also with
sewage and other utility pipelines. Once all the plots are serviced and the core infrastructure is ready, they
will be sold to industrialists wishing to move into Eastern Industrial Park with their development projects.
Development of the amenities and facilities shall then continue over a period of 2 years as industries also
develop in the park.
Objectives:
To develop a secure high-end industrial park with world class infrastructure.
To provide fully serviced plots to industries to speed up project development.
To provide core infrastructure and amenities to boost trade activities i.e. roads, water, power,
street lighting, sewage treatment/management, commercial areas, banks, wholesale outlets, hospital, police
station, fuel station, community centre, public transport stages, shopping mall, etc.
To incorporate a natural and green environment to provide a soothing landscape.
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The principle measure of sustainable development is that all activities which are carried out to achieve
development must take into account the needs of environmental conservation. The sustainability of the
ecosystem requires the balance between human development and the natural ecosystem. A symbiotic
relationship that can only be achieved through careful planning and the establishment of appropriate
management systems. In modern times, the need to plan activities has become an essential component of
the development process. Consequently a number of planning mechanisms have been put in place to
ensure that minimum damage is caused to the environment. Environmental planning is also integrated with
other planning processes such as physical planning, economic planning, and development planning.
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is considered part of environmental planning. EIAs are
undertaken for proposed activities that are likely to have a significant adverse impact on the environment
and are subject to a decision of a competent national authority. In Kenya, the competent authority is the
National Environment Management Authority (NEMA).
As part of the EIA process, it is necessary to devise alternatives to avoid undesirable impacts. Besides the
alternative, identification of impacts may also lead to the development of mitigation measures i.e. means
of reducing the impacts. As a tool of environmental planning, EIA is therefore precautionary in nature. EIA
is neither anti-development nor does it stop actions which impact the environment. It only requires that
those impacts be considered. Most development activities impact the environment hence a “no impact”
interpretation of environmental impact assessment could lead to no development. But a “considerable
impact” interpretation of EIA will lead to better development. If environmental impacts are ignored, the
project may not be sustainable in the long-run, in which case the money invested in it will have been
wasted.
In this development proposal, the proponent (Abacus Property Limited) intends to construct a serviced
Industrial Park within this site. Apart from being a viable investment to the proponent, it will provide the
neighbouring populace with suitable commercial/industrial housing facilities for rental in which to install
the various businesses. It has been established that such projects have a potential of causing significant
impacts on the environment. It is under this premise that the proponent deemed it necessary to carry out an
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the proposed project.
Environmental Impact Assessment studies were carried out as per the provisions of Environmental (Impact
Assessment and Audit) Regulations, 2003 .This study is a product of the entire study and will be used in
various decision making platforms including consideration for issuance with an EIA license by the
National Environment Management Authority (NEMA).
1.2 Justification of the Proposed Project.
In recent times, the Government of Kenya has refocused its efforts on the Vision 2030. A huge part of that
vision relies on the industrial sector being able to increase production and by extension employment.
However the current state of the Industrial Area of Nairobi is such that it does not encourage new
development and stifles growth of exiting business. This can be attributed to numerous factors such as but
not limited to,
1. Poor infrastructure
2. No physical planning
3. Uncoordinated waste management
4. Traffic gridlock
5. High energy costs and unreliable energy
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6. Insecurity
These are some of the challenges this project seeks to address. More importantly, the design of the project
is well thought out and has taken into consideration all the necessary interventions needed to take care for
mitigation of negative impacts on the environment and safeguard safety of construction workers.
1.3 Project and Environmental Impact Assessment Objectives.
The initial focus will be on servicing the undeveloped land with road access, power supply and water
supply. It will then be divided into smaller plots which will all be serviced with the same and also with
sewage and other utility pipelines. Once all the plots are serviced and the core infrastructure is ready, they
will be sold to industrialists wishing to move into Eastern industrial Park with development projects.
Objectives:
 To develop a secure high-end industrial park with world class infrastructure.
 To provide fully serviced plots to industries to speed up project development.
 To provide core infrastructure and amenities to boost trade activities i.e. roads, water, power, street
lighting, sewage treatment/management, commercial areas, banks, wholesale outlets, hospital, police
 To incorporate a natural and green environment to provide a soothing landscape..
Currently, there is a shortage of such buildings in this neighbourhood and its environs for such functions.
On the other hand the EIA study objectives for the proposed project were:
To identify environmental economic, social and health impacts,
To solicit views/opinion of the public and neighbors on the impacts of the project and
Develop an Environmental Management Plan for the project.
1.4 Scope of the EIA Study.
Arising from above objectives (Project and EIA), the scope of Environmental Impact Assessment include
the following:
The baseline conditions of the project area,
Description of the proposed project,
Relevant legislative, policy and administrative frameworks,
Views/opinions of the public,
Identification of significant adverse impacts to the environment,
Mitigation measures to adverse impacts, and
An Environmental Management Plan for the proposed project.
1.5 Terms of Reference.

In April 2014, the proponent contracted EIA/EA firm to conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment
study for the proposed commercial housing development. Terms of reference, which, defined duties of the
expert were as follows:
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The proposed location of the project.
The objectives of the project.
A concise description of the national environmental legislative and regulatory
framework, baseline information and any other relevant information related to the project.
The technology, procedures and processes to be used, in the implementation of the project.
The products, byproducts and waste generated by the project
A description of the potentially affected environment
The environmental effects of the project including the social and cultural effects and
the direct, indirect, cumulative, irreversible, short term and long term effects anticipated
Alternative technologies and processes available and reasons for preferring the chosen technology and
processes
Analysis of alternatives including project site, design and technologies and the reasons for preferring the
proposed site design and technologies
An environmental management plan proposing the measures for eliminating, minimizing or mitigating
adverse impacts on the environment, including the cost, time frame and responsibility to implement the
measures
Provision of an action plan for the prevention and management of foreseeable accidents and hazardous
activities in the course of carrying out activities or major industrial and other development projects
The measures to prevent health hazards and to ensure security in the working environment for the
employees and for the management of emergencies
An identification of gaps in knowledge and uncertainties which were encountered in compiling the
information.
An economic and social analysis of the project.
An indication of whether the environment of any other state is likely to be affected and the available
alternatives and mitigating measures and
Such other matters as the authority may require.
1.6 Methodology.
Environmental
Screening:
Environmental screening was carried out to determine whether an EIA assessment is necessary for this
project and at what level of evaluation. This took into consideration the requirements of the Environmental
Management and Coordination Act (EMCA), 1999, and specifically the second schedule of the same act.
From the screening process, it was understood that this project will cause significant impacts on the
environment.
Environmental Scoping:
In scoping, focus was on environmental impacts of great concern. Environmental issues were categorized
into physical, natural/ecological and social, economic and cultural aspects. Impacts were also classified as
immediate and long-term impacts.
This will include assessment of the proposed project in respect of but not limited to:
Project Background:
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This will give the brief history of the proposed project site, the parties involved and justification of the
project in terms of demand or lack of the same, the project area, relevant policy and legislation,
identification of any associated project, or any planned projects including products within the region which
may compete for the same resources; the project including products, byproducts, processes both at
implementation and operational level, resources required for successful implementation and operation of
the project and the different options considered.
The Proposed Project Objectives:

Both in the short and long run; and how they are linked to the overall objectives the project.
Present Environmental Conditions;

Description of the project site ecological zoning, as well as the state of the environment and its
surroundings. Attempts will state if it is already suffering from degradation. If the latter is true, the causes
of the original degradation will be established and if possible, the state of the environment before the
observed degradation,
Identification of Environmental Impacts:

The study will distinguish between significant positive and negative impacts, direct and indirect impacts
and immediate and long term impacts which are unavoidable and / or irreversible,
Analysis of the Alternatives to the Proposed Project:

This will involve description of alternatives and identifying alternatives that would achieve the same
objectives. Alternatives will be compared in terms of potential environmental impacts; capital and
operating costs; suitability under local conditions; and institutional training and monitoring requirements.
Community/ Stakeholder Consultations:

These will be undertaken to determine how the project will affect the local people / various stakeholders.
Cost- Benefit Analysis:

To evaluate the economics of the project, and establish its viability in terms of the expected environmental
concerns and measures.
Evaluation:
An indication of how the information gathered will be evaluated to give optimum results,
Development of an Environmental Management Plan (EMP):

To mitigate negative impacts, recommending feasible and cost effective measures to prevent or reduce
significant negative impacts to acceptable levels.
Development of a Monitoring Plan:

This will be used in monitoring the implementation of the mitigation measures and the impacts of the
project during construction and operational phases, including an estimate of capital and operational costs,
and Make necessary recommendations pertaining to the proposed development.
Desktop Study.
This involved documentary review of project documents, architectural drawings, past EIA relevant policy,
legal and institutional frameworks. Documents containing climatic, demographic and hydrological data for
the region were also relied upon.
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Site Visits and Public Participation
Field visits were meant for physical inspections of the project site in order to gather information on the
state of environment. Several photos of the project site were taken for inclusion in this study. The study
also sought public opinion/views through Consultation and Public Participation (CPP) exercise. Clip board
questionnaires were administered to the public and interviews held with neighbors. The questionnaires
have been included in this study.
Compiling.
In the entire exercise, the proponent and EIA experts contacted each other on the progress of the study and
signing of various documents. The proponent will have to submit ten copies of this study alongside a CD
to the National Environment Management Authority for review and issuance of an EIA license.
2
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
2.0 Project Description
Abacus Property Consultants Limited in collaboration with consortium of local and overseas partners
proposes to establish an ultra- modern Industrial park in Nairobi County. The park will be located on 200
acres in Ruai- Njiru area, 2km off the Eastern Bypass. The project concept entails development of Infinity
Industrial Park where 200 acres of land will be bought and serviced with all requisite infrastructure
facilities constructed to international standards. The park when fully developed is expected to enhance
Kenya’s position as an international competitive and attractive investment location.
The Park will be comprehensively designed and planned to provide an institutional framework, physical
infrastructure and administrative services that are currently not available elsewhere in the entire Eastern
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and Central African region. Investors in the Park will purchase serviced plots that will be sub-divided into
plots ranging from 1-5acres for development according to their own needs and ion line with specific
factory specification and designs. About 25% of the total 200 acres will be dedicated to infrastructure
development while the remaining will be divided into plots and further sold to investors.
The basic rationale for allowing individual ownership of plot is to enable industrialists to own and develop
the plots which together with plant and equipment can be used as collateral for banking financing. Landed
property is critical balance sheet asset that is permanent and offers great leverage when an investor opts to
access credit. Existing EPZ facilities are owned by developers in their entirety and many only leased for
short periods to investors; this is great disadvantage for investors opting to use their asset for borrowing.
The actual design components of the proposed development, as depicted on the architectural drawings
attached in this study, include:-
Creation of the basic and standard infrastructural amenities towards realization of this goal
Construction of numerous godowns and other peripheral amenities
Construction of a driveway, sidewalk and parking lot for vehicles
Development utilities (water, drainage, electricity etc)
Site landscaping and recreational amenities
A waste water treatment plant
Access roads and other infrastructural amenities
Construction of a perimeter wall including a guard house and dustbin cubicles
The project will cost approximately Nine Hundred Fifty Million Kenya Shillings (Kshs. 950,000,000)
ECONOMIC BENEFITS OF THE PARK
a. Direct Foreign Investment

The park will attract foreign investors through initial partnerships during development and investors who
will set up manufacturing enterprises in the park. Out of the total development cost of Kshs 6.25 billion we
expect approximately 50% to be foreign investment. In addition, we expect 500 enterprises to be
established within the Park, some of which will be multinationals. This no doubt is substantial boost to our
foreign reserves and support to the balance payments.
b. Employment Creation
The park through manufacturing enterprises and support facilities is expected to create 20,000 jobs
directly. However through downstream and upstream activities over 50,000 jobs will be created.
c. Export Promotion and Diversification

We expect that the majority of manufacturers in the Park will target the export markets in the region,
Europe, America and Asia. New products will be manufactured thereby broadening and deepening the
export sector and reducing dependence on imports and saving on foreign exchange.
d. Technology and Skills Transfer

Modern Technology will be brought into the county to ensure that goods produced in the Park are
competitive and quality standards are compatible with international expectations. Skill transfer and
diffusion will take place when local managers and workers are trained to operate and run machines to be
imported into the country.
e. Backward and Forward Linkages(Multiplier –Effects)to the Economy
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Firms located at the park will create backward and forward linkages in local economy by using the
services of local companies such as banks, audit firms, information technology, security providers and
legal firms. They will also diffuse economic learning to the rest of the sectors. By procuring local goods
and supplying goods to local industries and the business community they will create positive linkages. The
new park will stimulate growth of other activities like real estate development to provide accommodation
for workers in what will evolve as a satellite town to Ruai. The transport sector will also grow as demand
for transport to and from the Park will increase. The park will therefore have substantial multiplier-effects
on the economy as local contractors will be used to build factories and other facilities while local materials
will be used in the construction.
f. Value Addition and Economic Growth

Through earnings by factors such as salaries and wages, payment for services, generation of operating
surpluses and dividend payments, substantial value addition will be made and will boost economic growth.
The industrial sector’s share of GPD will also be enhanced.
g. Conservation of the Environment

Adequate safeguards will be put in place by developer of the park and operators to ensure that all effluents
and related wastes are disposed of in a manner that is not harmful to the environment and generally in
compliance with the requirements of NEMA. Operators will also be required to embrace practices that
guarantee social and environmental benefits to the local community and optimize the sustainable use of
resources. Abacus which is the Management Company will take initiative to minimize waste pollution and
congestion in the park. A comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment Study is being conducted and
will be approved by NEEMA before commencement of development of the Park.
At present scenario is that industries are growing in scattered area i.e. Ruiru, Juja, Thika, Kikuyu, Limuru
and its surrounding area where nearby residence area are set up. This is hazardous to health and environment.
The Industrial Park is therefore very urgently required to avert industrial pollution and save environment. h.
Corporate social responsibility
The concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) will be integral part of Abacus Property Consultant
Limited and Infinity Industrial Park Limited, managers and developers, respectively. The concept of CSR
is like corporate philanthropy and the principal promoter Mr. Ashok Shah, is already extensively involved
in in similar activities in Kenya.
To ensure that the tenets of CSR are fully met the following activities will be undertaken:-
Supporting sporting activities.
Providing Social amenities such as clinics and community centers.
Supporting needy and poor children through bursaries to ensure that they go to school.
Being actively involved in environment conservation activities within and around the Park.
Giving donations to societies supporting the disabled and destitute.
We believe that social responsibility is not an option part of the business strategy of the Abacus Group of
Companies.
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2.1 Impacts and Mitigation Measures
There are both positive and negative impacts associated with the proposed Eastern Industrial
Park project. These are identified according to phases namely: Construction Phase, Operational
Phase and Decommissioning Phase.
In general the following positive impacts are associated with the proposed development:-
Investment and Employment opportunities
Decentralization and decongestion of the Industrial Centre’s workforce population
Ease of neighbouring commercial centres traffic congestion
Gains in the local and national economy
Increase in national Commercial housing stock
Improvement in the Commercial housing quality
Optimal use of land
The negative Impacts associated with the proposed project are:

Noise pollution
Disposal of excavated soil
Oil spills
Increased water demand
Dust emissions
Solid waste generation
Generation of exhaust emissions
Increased runoff from new impervious areas
Soil erosion
Hydrology and water quality degradation
Workers accidents and hazards during construction
Increased pressure on infrastructure
Electricity consumption
Several measures have been and shall be put in place to mitigate any foreseeable impacts that are likely to
lead to environmental degradation. Some of these measures include preparation of a hazardous substance
control and emergency response plan that will include preparations for quick and safe clean up of
accidental spills, others are minimization of increased water demand; minimization of worker accidents
and hazards during construction phase; reduction of energy consumption; reduction of impacts at
extraction sites and efficient use of raw materials; Minimization of solid waste during construction phase;
minimization of storm water run-off and soil erosion; and minimization of vegetation disturbance which
are all outlined elaborately within the environmental management/monitoring plan.
The study is based on laid down scientific qualitative procedures with the most recent methodologies and
analysis required in EIA and, strictly adheres to the relevant legislative framework governing the
construction industry. Reference was also made to EIA studies dealing with similar projects from other
parts of the world.
Where possible, we have provided annexes such as site maps, plans and applications to local authorities to
support our findings and even pictorials to show the depth of our investigations. We have also provided
several photos of the proposed site.
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We found out that, the proponent of the proposed project is conversant with the laid down rules and
follows the laid down regulations, standards, laws and structural drawings as laid out and proposed by the
relevant authorities and professionals respectively. Our conclusion is that the project is important for
economic development of the area and has balanced environmental considerations and benefits. We have
given adequate measures to mitigate the negative impacts and a management plan proposed which the
proponent should adhere to so as to curb irreparable environmental effects.
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3 CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES
3.0 Background and Rationale for an Environmental Impact Assessment

The proponent initially focuses on the servicing the undeveloped land with road access, power supply and
water supply. It will then be divided into smaller plots which will all be serviced with the same and also
with sewage and other utility pipelines. Once all the plots are serviced and the core infrastructure is ready,
they will be sold to industrialists wishing to move into Eastern industrial Park with development projects.
3.1 Objectives:
To develop a secure high-end industrial park with world class infrastructure.
To provide fully serviced plots to industries to speed up project development.
To provide core infrastructure and amenities to boost trade activities i.e. roads, water, power,
street lighting, sewage treatment/management, commercial areas, banks, wholesale outlets, hospital, police
To incorporate a natural and green environment to provide a soothing landscape.
Picture 1: The site’s view (above and below) as focused from the hilly side.
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Picture 2: Other views of the site.
With the ongoing infrastructural expansions, like Nairobi – Thika Highway, Eastern and Southern by-
passes being constructed and opening routes for more business opportunities, thus changing the regions
setup from the current vast under-utilized chunks of land to a befitting commercial and residential hubs to
be exploited and transformed, one will not only put them to a better use but also diversify and magnify
their benefits by incorporating the private developers and general investors as well. Due to its size and
proximity to the main road, numerous entrepreneurs are expected to capitalize on its prime location to
open various businesses which will boost the area’s per capita to a greater extent.
The plot targeted for development is located just about 35 kilometres from Nairobi City’s CBD. It can only
be accessed via Nairobi – Thika Super highway or Mombasa road then divert to Kangundo road and
finally eastern bypass just along Gatharaini River within the Njiru area, as shown in the locational sketch
in the following pages (Paragraph 5.2). The Eastern Industrial Park is planned to incorporate numerous
lettable commercial spaces, other peripheral amenities cum vehicles parking facilities among others.
Environmental concerns need to be part of the planning and development process and not an afterthought,
it is therefore advisable to avoid land use conflicts with the surrounding area. To avoid unnecessary
conflicts that retard development in the country, the proponent undertook this EIA and incorporated
environmental concerns as advised by NEMA. Finally, a comprehensive Environmental Management Plan
is mandatory for a project of this magnitude and nature because commercial houses will produce large
quantities of solid wastes and wastewater.
It is a well known fact that there is a significant unemployment deficit that the nation is grappling with and
in a bid to narrow this gap, such initiatives by both the private sector and government needs to be
supported ardently for the general development and achievement of numerous development goals
nationally. Therefore this industrial housing project shall be a welcome development to help address the
limitation of industrial housing, decongestion of industrial areas and job creation in the city and its
environs.
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3.2 Need for the project
There is a big gap between the demand and availability of affordable commercial spaces within and in the
City’s surroundings for numerous expanding and evolving corporate entities and individual in dire need for
commercial spaces. This has been largely so because of the more expansions and evolution in the country’s
economic demands by both large and small scale business developments in the entire nation. It is against
this backdrop, coupled with increased urban population (increased job demands) and need for more
commercial housing facilities that necessitate such sections of the city to be opened for construction of
more commercial spaces to try to narrow the visible demand. Additionally the project intends to
accomplish the following:
 To develop a secure high-end industrial park with world class infrastructure.

 To provide fully serviced plots to industries to speed up project development.
 To provide core infrastructure and amenities to boost trade activities i.e. roads, water, power, street
lighting, sewage treatment/management, commercial areas, banks, wholesale outlets, hospital, police
 To incorporate a natural and green environment to provide a soothing landscape.
The conceived project is designed to be within character of the current commercial housing trends for the
area, where a survey revealed that such developments are guaranteed of attracting the desired clientele.
The need therefore exists for providing flexible, modern and cost effective commercial for such clients.
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3.3 INDUSTRIAL POLICY FRAMEWORK
The role of the manufacturing sector in Vision 2030 is to support the country’s social economic
development agenda by creating jobs, generating wealth and attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). In
addition, the sector is expected to play critical role by providing impetus towards the achievement of
Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) that include eradication of extreme poverty and foster
development through global partnerships. Policy initiatives undertaken to streamline and foster industrial
growth embrace the following:-
Development of the Investment Code through the Investment Promotion Act of 2004 to improve the
investment environment.
Enactment of Kenya Investment Authority act in 2006 to provide a “one stop shop” for licensing and
registration of businesses.
Formulation of the Private Sector Development Strategy (PSDS) in 2006 to promote the participation of
the private sector in steering the national development agenda.
Formulation of the National Exports Strategy (NES) to diversify and expand markets for manufacturers.
Preparation of National Industrial Policy under vision 2030 to guide in the transformation of the industrial
sector.
Development of Master Plan for Kenya’s Industrial Development to provide the roadmap for development
of the industrial sector.
In spite of the numerous policy initiatives, key challenges still stand on the way of developing a
competitive industrial sector. The challenges and constraints include the following:-
Regulatory and procedural constraints arising from overlaps and ambiguities in the mandates and functions
of Government Agencies. An investor, local or foreign has to deal with several government agencies
resulting in efficiency and high cost of establishing and doing business.
Inadequate and poor infrastructure including airports, harbours, railways, roads, utilities, factory building,
land and other essential services such as sewerages, drainage and firefighting.
Inadequate or lack of financial incentives and subsidies to ensure that the potential rate of return is
sufficiently adequate to attract and retain investors. Newly Industrialized Countries in Far East and
emerging economies in Eastern Europe have more comprehensive and more attractive incentive packages
relative to Kenya. Kenya has to wake up and offer better incentives in order to catch up economically.
Energy cost which is major input in manufacturing is excessively high and is made worse by high tax
regime (duty and VAT) coupled with erratic and disruptive power supply. Occasional spurts of
inconsistency in investment policies do not inspire confidence in investors and may result in costly
litigation in courts of law. Restriction on foreigners on ownership of land and generally on absolute
property rights serve as a discouragement to foreign investors and curtail direct foreign investment. High
cost of ICT infrastructure hinders access and usage leading to increased costs of marketing and
communication. Lack of synergies between industrialists and research and technology innovation.
Complete absence of financial institutions dedicated to provide funding for development of physical
infrastructure which has long gestation period and relatively low return. Lack of definition and recognition
of an Industrial Park (IP) or zone and absence of simple and transparent legislation on IPs away from
Export Processing Zones (EPZs) which is just one form of IPs. Need to collaborate with UNIDO which
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has a vast experience in implementation of legislative mechanisms for IPS activity, and particularly those
involving public-private partnerships.
3.4 Scope and content of project
The project assessment investigates and analyses the anticipated environmental impacts of the proposed
development in line with the Environmental (Impact Assessment and Audit ) 2003 regulations and in
particular part II S 7[1] a-k
Consequently, the study will provide the following:-

Nature of project
The location of the project including the physical area that may be affected by the
project’s activities.
The activities that shall be undertaken during the project construction operation and design of the
project
The materials to be used, products and by-product including waste to be generated by the project
and the methods of disposal.
The potential environmental impacts of the project and mitigation measures to be taken during and
after the implementation of the project.
An action plan for prevention and management of possible accidents during the
project cycle
A plan to ensure the health and safety of the workers and the neighbouring
communities
The economic and social cultural impacts to local community and the
nation in general The project budget
Any other information that the proponent may be requested to provide by NEMA
To achieve all this, a systematic approach was followed by the consultant which include the general steps
outlined below:-
Environment screening
Environmental scoping which provided the key environmental issues
Desktop studies and interviews
Physical inspection of the site and
surrounding areas EIA Public
participation via the use of
questionnaires Studying.
All these aspects will be considered accordingly. This study also seeks to ensure that all the potential
environmental impacts are identified and that workable mitigation measures are adopted. The study also
seeks to ensure compliance with the provision of the EMCA 1999, and Environmental (Impact Assessment
and Audit) Regulations 2003 as well as other regulations.
The study emphasizes the duties of the proponent and contractor during the construction phase as well as
the operation phase of this project.
3.5 Duties of the Proponent

It will be the duty of the proponent to ensure that all legal requirements as pertaining to the development
are met as specified by the law.
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 On the site provided by the proponent, the contractor shall erect a temporary office complete with all the
furniture and sanitary facilities to facilitate site management, meetings, inspections and other personnel’s
day to day activities.
 The proponent, depending on their agreement with the contractor, may also provide the contractor with
storage place, tentatively before they erect their own, for their usage and for use by the other
subcontractors.
3.6 Duties of the Contractor

 Prepare and maintain an approved Time and Progress chart, showing clearly the period allowed for
each section of the work
 The contractor is to comply with all regulations and by-laws of the local Authority including serving of
notices and paying of the fees.
 During the night, public holidays and any other time when no work is being carried out onsite, the
contractor shall accommodate only security personnel and never should a labour camp be allowed
onsite.
 The contractor shall make good at his own expense any damage he may cause to public and private
roads and pavements in the course of carrying out his work.
 The architect shall define the area of the site, which may be occupied by the contractor for use as
storage, on the site.
 The contractor shall provide at his own risk, and cost all water required for use in connection with the
works including the work including the work of subcontractors, and shall provide temporary storage
tanks,
 The contractor shall make his own arrangement for sanitary conveniences for his workmen. Any
arrangements so made shall be in conformity with the public health requirements for such facilities and
the contractor shall be solely liable for any infringement of the requirements.
 The main contractor shall be responsible for all the actions of the subcontractor in first instance.
 The contractor shall take all possible precaution to prevent nuisance, inconvenience or injury to the
neighbouring properties and to the public generally, and shall use proper precaution to ensure that
safety of wheeled traffic and pedestrian.
 All work operations, which may produce under level of noise, dust vibration, or any other discomfort
to the workers and/or guest of the client must be undertaken with care, with all necessary safety
precautions taken.
 Workers will not be allowed to assemble or wait around the premises main gate.
 Workers will be picked from elsewhere and transported through the main entrance to the internal
perimeter of the project site.
 The contractor shall take all effort of muffle/quieten the noises from his tools, equipment and workmen
to not more than 70 Decibels
 The contractor shall upon completion of working, remove and clear away all plant, rubbish and unused
materials and shall leave the whole of the site in a clean and tidy state to the satisfaction of the
Architect. He shall also remove from the site all rubbish and dirt as it is produced to maintain the
tidiness of the premises and its immediate environs.
 No unnecessary shrubs, trees, bushes or underground installations shall be removed except with the
express approval of the architect.
 No blasting shall be permitted without the prior approval of the architect and the local authorities.
 Burrow pits will only be allowed to be opened up on receipt of permission from the Architect
 The standard of workmanship shall not be inferior to the current operation codes of practice and /or the
Kenya Bureau of Standards where existing. No inferior materials shall be incorporated for use in the
permanent works or shall any material be used for any works or purpose other than that for which it is
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provided. Similarly, no material for temporary support may be used for permanent incorporation into
the works.
All the materials and workmanship used in the execution of the work shall be of the best quality and
description. Any material condemned by the architect shall be immediately be removed from the site at the
contractors cost.
4 POLICY, INSTITUTIONAL AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK
4.0 Introduction
There is a growing concern in Kenya and at global level that many forms of development activities cause
damage to the environment. Development activities have the potential to damage the natural resources
upon which the economies are based. Environmental Impact Assessment is a useful tool for protection of
the environment from the negative effects of developmental activities. It is now accepted that development
projects must be economically viable, socially acceptable and environmentally sound.
According to Sections 58 and 138 of the Environmental Management and Coordination Act (EMCA) No.
8 of 1999 and Section 3 of the Environmental (Impact Assessment and Audit) Regulations 2003 (Legal
No. 101), urban developments require an Environmental Impact Assessment project/study study prepared
and submitted to the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) for review and eventual
Licensing before the development commences. This was necessary as many forms of developmental
activities cause damage to the environment and hence the greatest challenge today is to maintain
sustainable development without interfering with the environment.
4.1 Environmental Problems in Kenya

There are many environmental problems and challenges in Kenya today. Among the cardinal
environmental problems include: loss of biodiversity and habitat, land degradation, land use conflicts,
human animal conflicts, water management and environmental pollution. This has been aggravated by
lack of awareness and inadequate information amongst the public on the consequences of their interaction
with the environment.
4.2 POLICY FRAMEWORK

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) critically examines the effects of a project on the environment.
An EIA identifies both negative and positive impacts of any development activity or project, how it affects
people, their property and the environment. EIA also identifies measures to mitigate the negative impacts,
while maximizing on the positive ones. EIA is basically a preventive process. It seeks to minimize adverse
impacts on the environment and reduces risks. If a proper EIA is carried out, then the safety of the
environment can be properly managed at all stages of a project-planning, design, construction, operation,
monitoring and evaluation as well as decommissioning. The assessment is required at all stages of project
development with a view to ensuring environmentally sustainable development for both existing and
proposed public and private sector development ventures. The National EIA regulations were issued in
accordance with the provisions of Environmental Management and Coordination Act (EMCA) of 1999.
The EIA Regulations must be administered, taking into cognizance provisions of EMCA 1999 and other
relevant national laws.
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4.3.1 National Housing Policy
This strategy followed the international Year of shelter for the homeless in 1987 and was formulated to
advocate a change in policy in order to allow other actors to come in and assist the government in
providing housing. The government was to simply facilitate other actors to invest in shelter.
4.3 INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK

At present there are over twenty (20) institutions and departments which deal with environmental issues in
Kenya. Some of the key institutions include the National Environmental Council (NEC), National
Environment Management Authority (NEMA), the Forestry Department, Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS)
and others.
4.3.1 National Environment Management Authority (NEMA)

The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) is established under the Environmental
Management and Coordination Act (EMCA) No. 8 of 1999, as the principal instrument of government in
the implementation of all policies relating to the environment.
The Authority became operational on 1st July 2002 following the merger of three government
departments, namely:
National Environment Secretariat (NES),

Permanent Presidential Commission on Soil Conservation and Afforestation (PPCSCA), and
Department of Resource Surveys and Remote Sensing (DRSRS).
However, following government restructuring in March 2003, DRSRS reverted to its departmental status
under the then Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (MENR). There was a transition period
characterised by the integration of previous departmental activities and appointment of the first Board of
Management.
The objective and purpose for which NEMA is established is to exercise general supervision and co-
ordinate over all matters relating to the environment and to be the principal instrument of the government
in the implementation of all policies relating to the environment.
4.3.2 Environmental Management and Coordination Act (EMCA), 1999

The enactment of EMCA, 1999 was a milestone in promoting sustainable environmental management in
the country. The Act provides for the harmonization of about 77 sectoral statutes, which address aspects of
the environment. Some sectoral statutes have inadequate provisions for prosecution of environmental
offenders, while in some penalties are not sufficiently punitive to deter offenders. EMCA, 1999 provides
an institutional framework and procedures for management of the environment, including provisions for
conflict resolution.
Section 3 of EMCA, 1999 states that “Every person in Kenya is entitled to a clean and healthy
environment and has the duty to safeguard and enhance the environment.” The Act is intended to ensure
that our activities do not compromise the capacity of the resource base to meet the needs of the present
generation as well as those of future generations (WCED, 1987)
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4.3.3 Provincial and District Environment Committees
According to EMCA, 1999 No. 8, the Minister by notice in the gazette appoints Provincial and District
Environment Committees of the Authority in respect of every province and district respectively. The
Provincial and District Environment Committees are responsible for the proper management of the
environment within the Province and District in respect of which they are appointed. They are also to
perform such additional functions as are prescribed by the Act or as may, from time to time be assigned by
the Minister by notice in the gazette. The decisions of these committees are legal and it is an offence not to
implement them.
4.3.4 Public Complaints Committee

The Committee performs the following functions:
Investigate any allegations or complaints against any person or against the authority in relation to the
condition of the environment in Kenya and on its own motion, any suspected case of environmental
degradation and to make a study of its findings together with its recommendations thereon to the Council.
Prepare and submit to the Council periodic studys of its activities which shall form part of the annual study
on the state of the environment under section 9 (3) and
To perform such other functions and excise such powers as may be assigned to it by the Council.
4.3.5 Nairobi City Council

This is a local authority that is charged with regulating developments within the city. NCC approves
developments, inspects building during constructions, issues permits and necessary licences including
hoarding, advertisement, waste disposal and business licences.
4.3.6 Nairobi Water & Sewerage Company

Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company was established in 2003 December as the leading provider of
quality water and proper sewerage to the residents of Nairobi and adjoining areas. Nairobi Water Company
achieves its objective by proper utilization of available resources in an effective manner.
The services provided by Nairobi City Water Company can be broadly categorized into Water Services,
and Sewerage Services.
Nairobi Water Company extracts a total of 468,974 cubic meters of water from 4 different sources (Lower
Kabete Dam, Sasumua Dam & Kabete Water Works), and supplies nearly 442,020 cubic meters to the city.
Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company also undertake the following services:
City sewerage service,

Sale of water – Nairobi Water Company sells water in cases of shortages or breakdown in
regular supply. Exhauster Service in areas that do not have proper sewerage facilities. This is a
prepaid service.
4.4 National Environmental Tribunal

This tribunal guides the handling of cases related to environmental offences in the Republic of Kenya.
4.5 LEGAL AND REGULATORY FRAMEWORK

Environmental Management and Co-ordination Act No. 8 of 1999, provide a legal and institutional
framework for the management of the environmental related matters. It is the framework law on
environment, which was enacted on the 14 th of January 1999 and commenced in January 2002. Topmost in
the administration of EMCA is National Environment Council (NEC), which formulates policies, set goals,
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and promotes environmental protection programmes. The implementing organ is National Environment
Management Authority (NEMA). EMCA comprises of the parts covering all aspects of the environment.
Part VIII, section 72 of the Act prohibits discharging or applying poisonous, toxic, noxious or obstructing
matter, radioactive or any other pollutants into aquatic environment. Section 73 requires that operators of
projects which discharge effluent or other pollutants submit to NEMA accurate information about the
quantities and quality of the effluent. Section 74 demands that all effluent generated from point sources are
discharged only into the existing sewages system upon issuance of prescribed permit from the Local
Authorities.
4.5.1 The Environmental (Impact Assessment and Audit) Regulations, 2003

The Environmental (Impact Assessment and Audit) Regulations, 2003 state in Regulation 3 that “the
Regulations shall apply to all policies, plans, programmes, projects and activities specified in Part IV, Part
V and the Second Schedule of the Act”.
Regulation 4(1) further states that:

‘‘…no proponent shall implement a project:
(a) Likely to have a negative environmental impact; or
(b) for which an environmental impact assessment is required under the Act or these Regulations;
unless an environmental impact assessment has been concluded and approved in accordance with these
Regulations…’’
4.5.2 Waste Management Regulations, 2006
Part II of the regulations regulation 4 (1) states that no person shall dispose of any waste on a public
highway, street, road, recreational area or in any public place except in a designated receptacle. Regulation
4 (2) further states that a waste generator shall collect, segregate and dispose such waste in the manner
provided for under these regulations.
Regulation 5 (1) provides for cleaner production methods. It states that a waste generator shall minimise
the waste generated by adopting the following cleaner production methods:
(a) Improvement of production process through:
(i) Conserving raw materials and energy;

(ii) Eliminating the use of toxic raw materials; and (iii) Reducing toxic
emissions and wastes;
(b) Monitoring the product cycle from beginning to end by:
(i) Identifying and eliminating potential negative impacts of the product;

(ii) Enabling the recovery and re-use of the product where possible; and
(c) Incorporating environmental concerns in the design and disposal of a product.
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Regulation 8 of the regulations provides for the responsibility of waste transporters. It states that any
person granted a license to transport waste shall ensure that:
(1) The collection and transportation of such waste is conducted in such a manner that will not cause
scattering of the waste;
(2) The vehicles and equipment for the transportation of waste are in such a state that shall cause scattering of,
flowing out of waste or emission of noxious smells from such waste;
(3) The vehicles for transportation and other means of conveyance of waste follow the scheduled routes
approved by the Authority from the point of collection to the disposal site or plant; and
(4) He or his agent (s) possess at all times during transportation of the waste, a duly filled tracking document
as set out in Form III in the first schedule to these regulations and shall produce the same such tracking
document on demand to any law enforcement officer.
4.5.3 EMCA – Noise & Excessive Vibration Pollution (Control) Regulations Of 2009
These rules are described in Legal Notice No. 25 of the Kenya Gazette Supplement No. 22 of April 2005
with amendments in 2009 ( LN 61) and state the noise regulations that apply to every factory, premises,
place, process and operations to which the provisions of the Factories and Other Places of Work Act (Cap
514) applies. These Rules describe the following:
 Permissible noise levels;

 Noise prevention programme;
 Noise measurements and records;
 Information on noise and training of workers;
 Noise measuring equipment;
 Engineering controls;
 Installation and maintenance of machinery or plant;
 Means of communication;
 Hearing protection;
 Noise hazard areas;
 Workers responsibility in noise hazard areas;
 Duties of the occupier;
 Medical examination and hearing tests;
 Compensation and notification of occupational hearing impairment;  Noise programme review;
 Offences and penalties.
4.5.4 Water Quality Regulations, 2006
Regulation 8 of these regulations provides for compliance with water quality standards. It states that all
operators and suppliers of treated water, containerised water and all water vendors shall comply with the
relevant quality standards in force as may be prescribed by the relevant lead agencies.
Regulation 9 of these regulations provides for water quality monitoring. It states that the Authority in
consultation with the relevant lead agency, shall maintain water quality monitoring for sources of domestic
water at least twice every calendar year and such monitoring records shall be in the prescribed form as set
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out in the second schedule to these regulations. Table 2 below shows the quality standards for sources of
domestic water.
Table 1: Quality standards for sources of domestic water
Parameter Guide Value (Maximum allowable)

pH 6.5 – 8.5
Suspended solids 30 (mg/L)
Nitrate – NO3 10 (mg/L)
Ammonia – NH3 0.5 (mg/L)
Nitrate – NO2 3 (mg/L)
Total dissolved solids 1200 (mg/L)
Ecoli Nil/100ml
Fluoride 1.5 (mg/L)
Phenols Nil (mg/L)
Arsenic 0.01 (mg/L)
Cadmium 0.01 (mg/L)
Lead 0.05 (mg/L)
Selenium 0.01 (mg/L)
Copper 0.05 (mg/L)
Zinc 1.5 (mg/L)
Alkyl benzyl sulphonates 0.5 (mg/L)
Permanganate Value 1.0 (mg/L)
(PV)
4.5.5 Public Health Act (Cap. 242)

Part IX, section 115, of the Act states that no person/institution shall cause nuisance or condition liable to
be injurious or dangerous to human health. Section 116 requires that Local Authorities take all lawful,
necessary and reasonably practicable measures to maintain their jurisdiction clean and sanitary to prevent
occurrence of nuisance or condition liable to be injurious or dangerous to human health. Such nuisance or
conditions are defined under section 118 as waste pipes, sewers, drainers or refuse pits in such state,
situated or constructed as in the opinion of the medical officer of health to be offensive or injurious to
health.
4.5.6 Physical Planning Act, 1999

The Local Authorities are empowered under section 29 of the Act to reserve and maintain all land planned
for open spaces, parks, urban forests and green belts. The same section, therefore allows for the prohibition
or control of the use and development of land and buildings in the interest of proper and orderly
development of an area.
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Section 30 states that any person who carries out development without development permission will be
required to restore the land to its original condition. It also states that no other licensing authority shall
grant license for commercial or industrial use or occupation of any building without a development
permission granted by the respective Local Authority.
4.5.7 Local Authority Act (Cap 265).

Section 160 helps Local Authorities ensure effective utilization of the sewages systems. Section 170,
allows the right to access to private property at all times by Local Authorities, its officers and servants for
purposes of inspection, maintenance and alteration or repairs of sewers. The Act under section 176 gives
powers to Local
Authority to regulate sewage and drainage, fix charges for use of sewers and drains and require connecting
premises to meet the related costs. According to section 174, any charges so collected shall be deemed to
be charges for sanitary services and will be recoverable from the premise owner connected to the facility.
Section 264 also requires that all charges due for sewage sanitary and refuse removal shall be recovered
jointly and severally from the owner and occupier of the premises in respect of which the services were
rendered. This in part allows for application of the “polluter-pays-principle”.
4.5.8 Water Act, 2002

Part II, section 18, of the Water Act 2002 provides for national monitoring and information system on
water resources. Following on this, sub-section 3 allows the Water Resources Management Authority
(WRMA) to demand from any person or institution, specified information, documents, samples or
materials on water resources. Under these rules, specific records may require to be kept by a facility
operator and the information thereof furnished to the Authority.
The Water Act Cap 372 vests the rights of all water to the state, and the power for the control of all body of
water with the Minister, the powers is exercised through the Minister and the Director of water resources
in consultation with the water catchments boards, it aims at among others:
1. Provision of conservation of water and 2.

Appointment and use of water resources.
4.5.9 Building Code 2000

Section 194 requires that where sewer exists, the occupants of the nearby premises shall apply to the Local
Authority for a permit to connect to the sewer line and all the wastewater must be discharged into sewers.
4.5.10 Occupational Safety and Health Act, 2007

This is an act of Parliament to provide for the safety, health and welfare of workers and all persons
lawfully present at workplaces, to provide for the establishment of the National Council for Occupational
Safety and Health and for connected purposes. The Act was published in the Kenya Gazette Supplement
No. 111 (Acts No.15). It received presidential assent on 22 nd October, 2007 and became operational on 26th
October, 2007.
The key areas addressed by the Act include:

 General duties including duties of occupiers, self employed persons and employees  Enforcement
of the act including powers of an occupational safety and health officer  Registration of
workplaces.
 Health General Provisions including cleanliness, ventilation, lighting and sanitary conveniences
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 Machinery safety including safe handling of transmission machinery, hand held and portable power
tools, self acting machines, hoists and lifts, chains, ropes & lifting tackle, cranes and other lifting
machines, steam boilers, air receivers, refrigeration plants and compressed air receiver
 Safety General Provisions including safe storage of dangerous liquids, fire safety, evacuation
procedures, precautions with respect to explosives or inflammable dust or gas
 Chemical safety including the use of material safety data sheets, control of air pollution, noise and
vibration, the handling, transportation and disposal of chemicals and other hazardous substances
materials  Welfare general provisions including supply of drinking water, washing facilities, and
first aid
 Offences, penalties and legal proceedings
 Under section 6 of this act, every occupier is obliged to ensure safety, health and welfare of all
persons working in his workplace. The occupier shall achieve this objective by preparing and as often
as may be appropriate, revising a written statement of his general policy with respect to the safety and
health at work of his employees and the organization and arrangements for the time being in force for
carrying out that policy (Section 7).
 He is also required to establish a safety and health committee at the workplace in a situation where the
number of employees exceeds twenty (section 9) and to cause a thorough safety and health audit of his
workplace to be carried out at least once in every period of twelve months by a registered safety and
health Advisor (Section 11). In addition, any accident, dangerous occurrence, or occupational
poisoning which has occurred at the workplace needs to be studyed to the occupational safety and
health officer of the respective area by an employer or self-employed person (section 21).
According to section 44, potential occupiers are required to obtain a registration certificate from the
Director for all premises intended for use as workplaces. Such places shall be maintained in a clean state
during the operation phase (section 47). To ensure machinery safety, every hoist or lift – section 63 and/or
all chains, ropes and lifting tackles – section 64 (1d), shall be thoroughly examined at least once in every
period of six months by a person approved by the Director of Occupational Health and Safety Services.
Similarly, every steam boiler - section 67 (8) and/or steam receiver - section 68 (4) and all their fittings
and/or attachments shall be thoroughly examined by an approved person at least once in every period of
twelve months whereas every air receiver shall be thoroughly cleaned and examined at least once in every
period of twenty four months or after any extensive repairs - section 69 (5). According to section 71 (3),
every refrigeration plant capable of being entered by an employee also needs to be examined, tested and
certified at least once in every period of twelve months by an approved person.
In relation to fire safety, section 78 (3) requires spillage or leaks of any flammable liquid to be contained or
immediately drained off to a suitable container or to a safe place, or otherwise treated to make it safe.
Furthermore, a clear and bold notice indicating that smoking is prohibited should be conspicuously
displayed in any place in which explosive, highly flammable or highly combustible substances, are
manufactured, used, handled or stored-section 78 (5).
In addition, necessary precautions for dealing with fire incidents should be implemented including
provision of means for extinguishing fire and means for escape, in case of fire, for the persons employed in
any workplace or workroom – section 81. As far as disaster preparedness and emergency response
program is concerned, section 82 (1) makes it a mandatory requirement for every occupier of a workplace
to design evacuation procedures to be used during any emergency situation and to have them tested at
regular intervals.
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To promote health and safety of employees who are at risk of being exposed to chemical substances,
section 84 (3) and 85 (4) requires every employer to maintain at the workplace material safety data sheets
and chemical safety data sheets respectively for all chemicals and other hazardous substances in use and
ensure that they are easily available to the employees.
The employers’ positive contribution towards the welfare of the employees include provision and
maintenance of adequate supply of wholesome drinking water - section 91 and a first aid box or cupboard
of the prescribed standard – section 95 at suitable point (s) conveniently accessible to all employees.
Other precautionary measures include: issuance of a permit to work to any employee, likely to be exposed
to hazardous work processes or hazardous working environment, including such work processes as the
maintenance and repair of boilers, dock work, confined spaces, and the maintenance of machinery and
equipment, electrical energy installations, indicating the necessary precautions to be taken – section 96 (1);
provision and maintenance for the use of employees, adequate, effective and suitable protective clothing
including suitable gloves, footwear, goggle and head coverings in any workplace where employees are
likely to be exposed to wet, injurious or offensive substance – section 101 (1).
4.5.11 Health
The premise must be kept clean, daily removal of accumulated dust from floors, free from effluvia arising
from any drain, sanitary convenience or nuisance and without prejudice to the generality of foregoing
provision. A premise must not be overcrowded, there must be in each room 10 metres of space for each
employee, not counting space 14 feet from the floor and a 9 feet floor-roof height.
The circulation of fresh air must secure adequate ventilation of workrooms. There must be sufficient and
suitable lighting in every part of the premise in which persons are working or passing. There should also
be sufficient and suitable sanitary conveniences separate for each sex, must be provided subject to
conformity with any standards prescribed by rules. Food and drinks should not be partaken in dangerous
places or workrooms.
Provision of suitable protective clothing and appliances including where necessary, suitable gloves,
footwear, goggles, gas masks, and head covering, and maintained for the use of workers in any process
involving expose to wet or to any injurious or offensive substances.
4.5.12 Safety
Fencing of premises and dangerous parts of other machinery is mandatory. Training and supervision of
inexperienced workers, protection of eyes with goggles or effective screens must be provided in certain
specified processes. Floors, passages, gangways, stairs, and ladders must be soundly constructed and
properly maintained and handrails must be provided for stairs.
Special precaution against gassing is laid down for work in confined spaces where persons are liable to
overcome by dangerous fumes. Air receivers and fittings must be of sound construction and properly
maintained. Adequate and suitable means for extinguishing fire must be provided in addition to adequate
means of escape in case of fire must be provided.
4.5.13 Welfare
An adequate supply of both quantity and quality of wholesome drinking water must be provided.
Maintenance of suitable washing facilities, accommodation for clothing not worn during working hours
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must be provided. Sitting facilities for all female workers whose work is done while standing should be
provided to enable them take advantage of any opportunity for resting.
Section 42 stipulates that every premise shall be provided with maintenance, readily accessible means for
extinguishing fire and person trained in the correct use of such means shall be present during all working
periods.
Section 45 states that regular individual examination or surveys of health conditions of industrial medicine
and hygiene must be performed and the cost will be met by the employer. This will ensure that the
examination can take place without any loss of earning for the employees and if possible within normal
working hours.
Section 55B provides for development and maintenance of an effective programme of collection,
compilation and analysis of occupational safety. This will ensure that health statistics, which shall cover
injuries and illness including disabling during working hours, are adhered.
4.5.14 Wayleaves Act Cap 292

According to the Wayleaves Act cap 292 Section 2, Private land does not include any land sold or leased
under any Act dealing with Government lands. Section 3 of the Act states that the Government may carry
any sewer, drain or pipeline into, through, over or under any lands whatsoever, but may not in so doing
interfere with any existing building. Section 8 further states that any person who, without the consent of
the Permanent Secretary to the Ministry responsible for works (which consent shall not be unreasonably
withheld), causes any building to be newly erected over any sewer, drain or pipeline the property of the
Government shall be guilty of an offence and liable to a fine of one hundred and fifty shillings, and a
further fine of sixty shillings for every day during which the offence is continued after written notice in
that behalf from the Permanent Secretary; and the Permanent Secretary may cause any building erected in
contravention of this section to be altered, demolished or otherwise dealt with as he may think fit, and may
recover any expense incurred by the Government in so doing from the offender.
Picture 3: Electricity transporting pylons on the lower side of the site.
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4.5.15 Registration of Titles Act Cap 281
Section 34 of this Act states that when land is intended to be transferred or any right of way or other
easement is intended to be created or transferred, the registered proprietor or, if the proprietor is of
unsound mind, the guardian or other person appointed by the court to act on his/her behalf in the matter,
shall execute, in original only, a transfer in form F in the First Schedule, which transfer shall, for
description of the land intended be dealt with, refer to the grant or certificate of title of the land, or shall
give such description as may be sufficient to identify it, and shall contain an accurate statement of the land
and easement, or the easement, intended to be transferred or created, and a memorandum of all leases,
charges and other encumbrances to which the land may be subject, and of all rights-of-way, easements and
privileges intended to be conveyed.
5 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT
5.0 Introduction
This Section describes the proposed Eastern Industrial Park’s project design. It highlights various aspects
related to the proposed project. The aspects include the following; Client’s brief, location, access and
design and response to the environment.
Project location
The proposed project is located about (35 Kms) thirty five kilometres from Nairobi City’s CBD along the
busy Nairobi – Thika Highway along Gatharaini River within Njiru area in the outskirts of Juja town. The
plot in mention is LR. No.17553. Neighbouring landmarks are few and scattered residential homes in the
neighbourhood and Mwihoko estate on the opposite side of River Gatharaini within Kiambu County.
Sketch 1: Directional sketch to the proposed site.
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GATHARAINI RIVER
MWIHOKO
ESTATE
TO THIKA
SUPER
HIGHWAY
GITHIOKO ESTATE
County
Club
DAMAGED BRIDGE Restaura
CONNECTING MWIHOKO nt
AND GITHIOKO ESTATES
NEW NEW
BUILD BUILDI
INGS NGS
FAINTLY MARKED EARTHEN

ROAD TO THE SITE
FROM
KANGUNDO
ROAD
JUNCTION
The main access road, Eastern bypass is still new and is in perfect condition and are frequently used by
both motorists and pedestrians as shown in the picture below.
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Picture 4: Motorists using the newly constructed Eastern bypass, the site’s main access road,
about 3kms from the site.
The site falls within a blend of both commercial premises and some residential homes and other associated
developments including reliable road network, electricity, water supply and other infrastructural amenities.
5.3 Area land use zonations.

Njiru area consists of a blend of numerous commercial establishments of varied capacities ranging from
simple shops to established hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, petroleum stations, single residential homes
and apartments, schools amongst other commercial structures. Currently there may not be similar
developments around the project environment but with time many are likely to come up due to public
demands. The proposed development will thus, in the long term, fit in with other existing type of
establishments in the neighbourhood.
5.4 Design of the project

In general, the design of the project will tend to essentially optimise the use of best available technology to
prevent or minimize potentially significant environmental impacts associated with the project and to
incorporate efficient operational controls together with trained staff, to ensure high level business and
environmental performances.
The project will involve the development of an Eastern Industrial Park complete with parking bays,
lettable commercial spaces amongst other necessary amenities. The other components will include, storm
water drainage system, sewage drainage system, and electricity and water supply systems to ensure smooth
operations at the venture.
5
The Commercial Housing’s Design (with reference to the Architectural Drawings attached in
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the appendix)
The technology used in the design and construction of the Eastern Industrial Park will be based on
national/international permitted standards, which have been customized by various housing designs in
Kenya. With the commercial units beginning right from the ground floor, and ample space for parking of
cars, most of the godowns of the Eastern Industrial Park units will comprise of similar settings with minor
architectural differences where deemed fit, for the safetiness of the structure. The units will comprise of
the following features:-
Apart from the concrete products factory, the godown blocks will be composed of:
 Ample lettable commercial spaces  Sanitary rooms (toilets

and washrooms),  Well groomed lawns and many more.
 Spacious vehicular parking spaces within the compound
The building will be provided with storm water facilities from the roof top through peripheral drainage
systems into storm water drainage systems. Drainage pipes will be of the PVC type and will be laid under
the buildings and the driveway and will be encased in concrete.
The building will have adequate natural ventilation through provision of permanent vents in all habitable
rooms, adequate natural and artificial light, piped water stored in underground and above ground tanks.
5.6 Other features related to the proposed Eastern Industrial Park

The following features are also related to the proposed Eastern Industrial Park:
 Boundary wall around the compound

 30 degree roof pitch roofing tiles on structural timber members to s.e. detail on 300 mm r.e.
ring beam
 Cold water storage tanks/reservoirs to specification for general usage in case of insufficiency or
scarcity.
 1000 gallon reserve tank for fire fighting equipment and an automatic booster pump
 150 mm concrete slab on dpm on 50mm ant-termite blinding on 300mm hardcore fill to s.e
detail
 600 x 250 mm r.e strip foundation on solid ground to s.e detail
 All openings to habitable rooms to have permanent vents (P.V)
 All drainage pipes laid under building and driveway to be of PVC type and in concrete
 Provide dump proof course under all walls
 All walls below 200mm thick to be reinforced with hoop iron at every alternative course 
Provide 1000G polythene sheeting and anti termite treatment under floor.
5.7 Infrastructure
The Eastern Industrial Park will have a comprehensive and robust infrastructure including an access
driveway road, parking areas, water storage, electricity distribution and waste disposal.
5.8 Parking area and driveway

The Eastern Industrial Park will have an adequate car park capacity. The parking area, situated on the
ground floor and the access driveway will be paved using concrete (cabro paving) blocks or tarmacked.
The driveway will be spacious (5 meters) such as to allow easy turning and passage of vehicles and will
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also be inclined to a degree that does not allow stagnation of water and thus linked to storm water drainage
system.
Picture 5: The site’s only access road, passing through Githioko estate, from the main Eastern
bypass
5.9 Guardhouse
A guardhouse, is located next to the main entrance to the facility will be constructed to ease in and outward
movement of tenants and also to ensure security operations around the compound. Within the gatehouse
block will be incorporated washing facilities and waste collection cubicles.
5.10 Solid waste and waste water

Solid waste management will consists of a garbage chute situated at the Eastern Industrial Park’s staircases
for easy downward transportation of garbage into the garbage stores. All garbage stores will be protected
from rain and scavenging animals while within the premises and the guardhouse block. The waste will
then be collected by a private waste management company to be composted, palletised or re-cycled
depending on the waste management strategy to be adopted. Other waste water from the Blocks and the
factory will be channelled into the yet-to-be constructed bio-digester located at an accessible area of the
plot as shown in the attached architectural drawings.
5.11 Drainage system

The building is and will be provided with storm water facilities from the roof top through to the peripheral
built drainage systems into storm water drainage systems. Drainage pipes will be of the pvc type and will
be laid under the buildings and the driveway and will be encased in concrete.
The pipes will be inclined to a degree that does not allow stagnation of water and thus linked to storm
water drainage system.
All storm water drainage will be channelled into open storm water drain systems with a 300mm diameter
encase in 150 concrete surround. All I.C’S and manholes in the driveway will have heavy duty covers.
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Increased runoff from paved grounds and expansive roofs causing extreme flooding and overflows of
drainage systems shall be mitigated. Surface runoff and roof water may be harvested and stored in
underground reservoir for reuse. A storm water management plan that minimizes impervious area
infiltration by use of recharge areas and use of detention and/or retention with graduated outlet control
structures will be designed.
5.12 Riparian Reserve

Since the plot borders Gatharaini river, the riparian reserve must be respected and preserved between the
river and building line and all involved parties in the projects activities must endeavour to preserve, protect
and never pollute or contaminate the water body in any way as stipulated in EMCA- THE
ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT AND CO-ORDINATION ACT - (WETLANDS, RIVER BANKS, LAKE SHORES
AND SEA SHORE MANAGEMENT) REGULATIONS, - 2009) SPECIAL ISSUE 51, LECAL NOTICE
NO. 19). A copy of which can be attain from government printers for more clarity
5.13 Service path for other developed plots

Since most of the neighbouring plots are developed and are connected to very wide and accessible nearby
Eastern Bypass road, amongst other undeveloped access routes, there is dire need to provide additional
service paths and roads between them with necessary measures being put in place to cater for such
eventualities or rehabilitate the available roads to improve their status.
Picture 6: The site’s access road diverting the main Eastern Bypass just at “County Club”
restaurant, down through Githioko Estate.
5.14 Electrical system

The Eastern Industrial Park will be connected to the electricity main line of the Kenya Power and Lighting
Company, which will be used in all phases of the project. The various components of the electrical system
shall comprise single and twin socket outlet, one and two way switch outlets wall mounted security
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bulkhead fitting, lockable meter boards with glass view panel, gate lights and security alarm panel outlet.
The necessary guidelines and precautionary measures relating to the use of electricity shall be adhered to.
5.15 Water reticulation system

Water from the existing borehole (shown below) in addition to sourcing from Nairobi Water and Sewerage
Company’s mains from the neighbouring sources will be used during construction and operation phases.
More so there will be water storage tanks to increase water capacity at the project site to the required
amount. There shall be water storage tanks provision for the general occupants which will be mounted at
the roof level of the block.
Picture 7: The existing borehole, accessed by the proponent's team and other consultants
5.16 Need for water harvesting and Storage

Due to ever increasing demand for water which is occasioned by gradually increasing population in the
native region and its environs as compared to the limited supply the Ruiru - Juja & Sewerage Company,
there is dire necessity to harvest and store water from other source especially rain water during rainy
seasons to usage during dry seasons of the year or possibly by drilling of a borehole, licence granted.
These measures will avert scarcity and promote conservation and accountability among residents and the
neighbours
The proponent is urged to ensure that water storage tanks be put in place, as a backup system, in case of
water shortage problems.
5.17 Storm water run-off

All storm water drainage will be channelled into open storm water drain systems with a 300mm diameter
encase in 150 concrete surround. All I.C’S and manholes in the driveway will have heavy duty covers.
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5.18 Landscaping
The project site’s exterior may be landscaped after construction in conjunction with support of the
neighbours, using plant species available locally. This may include establishment of flower gardens and
lush grass lawns to improve the visual quality of the site and its vicinity.
Description of the project’s construction activities
5.19 Pre-construction investigations

The implementation of the project’s initial design and construction phase has not been initiated. Being a
bare land, the site has to be the excavated to remove the thick outer layer of black cotton soil to arrive at a
firm, uniform and suitable level for foundation laying and subsequent construction of the proposed
structures.
Therefore, with thorough investigation of the site’s physical resources and in order to minimize any
unforeseen adverse impacts during the project cycle these changes and current EIA is paramount.
5.20 Sourcing and transportation of building materials

Building materials already in use and those to be supplied later are transported to the project site from their
extraction, manufacture, or storage points using transport trucks. These are and will continuously be
sourced from Nairobi and neighbouring areas such as Athi River, Juja and surrounding Njiru sites. Greater
emphasis will be laid on procurement of building materials from within the local area, which will make
both economic and environmental sense as it will reduce negative impacts of transportation of the
materials to the project site through reduced distance of travel by the materials transport vehicles.
5.21 Storage of materials

Building materials are stored on site. Bulky materials such as rough stones, ballast, sand and steel are
carefully piled on site. To avoid piling large quantities of materials on site, the proponent ensures that
ordering of bulky materials such as sand, gravel and stones is done in bits. Materials such as cement,
paints and glasses among others are stored in temporary storage structures, within the project site.
5.22 Excavation works

Since the site has been partially excavated, this does not further excavation work when deemed necessary
to arrive at a uniform and suitable ground for foundation laying. Excavated materials must carefully be
disposed off appropriately at the beginning of the work. Other solid wastes, generating from the works can
be reused for refilling, other construction works or if not reusable or be summarily disposed of
appropriately by a licensed waste disposal company.
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Picture 8: Gatharaini River, the boundary line separating Nairobi and Kiambu counties on the
lower side of the site.
5.23 Excavation and foundation works

During these excavation and other preliminary exercises usually carried out to prepare the site for
construction of foundations great care must be ensured to prevent any environmental, physical or
ecological destruction to any nearby infrastructural or private installations and systems. These usually
involve the use of heavy earthmoving machinery such as tractors and compressors.
5.24 Masonry, concrete work and related activities

The construction of the building walls, foundations, floors, pavements, drainage systems, perimeter fence
and parking area among other components of the project involve a lot of masonry work and related
activities. General masonry and related activities include stone shaping, concrete mixing, plastering, slab
construction, construction of foundations, erection of building walls and curing of fresh concrete surfaces.
These activities are known to be labour intensive and will be supplemented by machinery such as concrete
mixers.
5.25 Structural steel works

The building is reinforced with structural steel for stability. Structural steel works will involve steel
cutting, welding and erection.
5.26 Roofing
Roofing activities will include raising the roofing materials such as tiles and structural timber to the roof
and fastening the roofing materials to the roof.
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5.27 Electrical work
Electrical works during construction of the premises include installation of electrical gadgets and
appliances including electrical cables, lighting apparatus, sockets etc. In addition, there will be other
activities involving the use of electricity such as welding and metal cutting.
5.28 Plumbing
Installation of pipe-works for water supply and waste distribution will be carried out within the blocks,
factory and the associated facilities. In addition, pipe-works will be done to direct the whole blocks and
factory’s sewerage into the installed bio-digester. Drainage of storm water from the rooftops into the
peripheral storm water drainage system will be done as well. Plumbing activities will include metal and
plastic cutting, the use of adhesives, metal grinding and wall drilling among others.
5.29 Landscaping
To improve the aesthetic value or visual quality of the site once construction ceases, the proponent will
carry out landscaping. This may include establishment of flower gardens and grass lawns and will involve
replenishment of the topsoil. It is noteworthy that the proponent will use plant species that are available
locally preferably indigenous ones for landscaping.
Description of the project’s operational activities

5.30 Occupation
Numerous companies and individuals will acquire the available lettable spaces within the proposed
godown blocks once their construction is complete. Several commercial and domestic activities such as
cooking, washing, use of vehicles will thus accompany occupation. In addition, there will be production of
some industrial and sanitary wastes.
5.31 Solid waste and waste water management

The proponent will provide facilities for handling solid waste generated within the facility. These will
include dustbin cubicles for temporarily holding waste bins or exhaustible toilets within the premises
before final collection and disposal by appropriate contracted firm. Sewage generated from the blocks will
be discharged into the yet-to-be installed bio-digester, while storm water from the project area will be
channelled into the created storm water drainages along the boundaries as will be designed by the architect
other involved designers and engineers.
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Picture9: Existing Sewer line manholes in the site's vicinity, from which the project's sewer system will be connected.
5.32 Cleaning
The proponent will be responsible for regular maintenance and cleaning of the pavements and compound.
Individual tenants will be responsible for washing and cleaning their own Commercial spaces. Cleaning
operations will involve the use of substantial amounts of water, disinfectants and detergents.
5.33 General repairs and maintenance

The godown blocks, the factory and associated facilities will be repaired and maintained regularly during
the operational phase of the project. Such activities will include repair of building walls and floors, repairs
and maintenance of electrical gadgets and equipment, repairs of leaking water pipes, painting, maintenance
of flower gardens and grass lawns, and replacement of worn out materials among others.
Description of the project’s decommissioning activities

5.34 Demolition works
Should the project go on to its expected and projected goal, these structures and other associated facilities
will be actualised. In the event that the project be reversed and the area be reclaimed to its former status
and in line with environment management cycle, these construction works will be demolished. Should that
be the case, general due diligence and care must be observed at all times to ensure that the safety of the
workers and the public and the project components including existing structures on the site, pavements,
drainage systems, parking areas and perimeter fence that will be demolished.
5.35 Dismantling of equipment and fixtures

All equipment including electrical installations, furniture partitions, pipe-work and sinks among others
already dismantled or to be discarded on completion and removed from the site on decommissioning or
after of the project can be donation to any ready re-user, recycled should there be need or summarily
disposed to an appropriate place free from human or domestic contamination or harm.
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5.36 Site restoration
Once all the waste resulting from demolition and dismantling works is removed from the site, the site will
be restored through replenishment of the topsoil and re-vegetation using indigenous plant species.
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6 BASELINE INFORMATION OF THE STUDY AREA
6.0 Introduction
Nairobi lies at an altitude of 1680m above sea level, but this height ranges from 1500m (to the east) to
2300m (to the West). It is located at longitude 36 o 50' east and latitude 1o 18' South about 140 km South of
the Equator and situated at an elevation of about 5,500 feet above sea level, placing its high affect for the
cooler air to keep its temperatures moderate.
Nairobi City has experienced rapid growth both in terms of population and physical expansion. The
physical area of Nairobi has been expanding tremendously from 3.84 Km 2 in 1900 to 684 Km2 in 1963
which is the current official size of the City.
Nairobi City lies in the Athi River Drainage Basin. The major rivers that cross the City include Nairobi,
Ruaraka, Ngong, Athi and Mathari River. All these drain from the West and flow towards the Eastern
direction as dictated by the topographical features. As the rivers pass through the City, industrial effluents,
municipal waste and siltation heavily pollute them.
6.1 The Site’s Specific GPS Coordinates

The site falls within the Indians dominated western side of Nairobi City, off Eastern Bypass road within
Githioko area of Njiru at an exact Altitude of 1497m above sea level, Latitude 1014.72406’ South of
Equator and Longitude 36058.61406’ East of Greenwich Meridian.
6.2 Climate
6.2.1 Average daily temperatures

The average daily temperature throughout the year (See Table 1 below) varies slightly from month to
month with average temperatures of around 17 degrees Celsius during the months of July and August to
about 20 degrees Celsius in March. But, the daily range is much higher, with the differences between
maximum and minimum temperatures each day around 10 degrees in May and up to 15 degrees in
February. Between the months of June to September, southeast winds prevail in the coastal parts of Kenya
and last up to several days without a break. The clouds cause day temperatures to remain low and most
times the maximum temperature stay below 18 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperatures also remain
low during cloudy nights, usually hovering around 8 degrees Celsius and sometimes even reaching 6
degrees Celsius. Clear skies in January and February also bring colder nights.
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The highest temperature ever reached in Nairobi was 32.8 degrees Celsius and the lowest was 3.9 degrees
Celsius.
Mean Maximum Mean Minimum Mean Range

0 0 0
Months
C C C
January 26.8 13.1 13.7
February 28.0 13.4 14.6
March 27.4 14.4 13.0
April 24.6 14.3 10.3
May 24.1 14.2 9.9
June 23.1 12.6 10.5
July 22.3 11.5 10.8
August 22.7 11.8 10.9
September 25.3 12.2 13.1
October 26.2 13.7 12.5
November 23.6 14.4 9.2
December 25.1 13.8 11.6
Year 24.9 13.3 11.6
Table 2: Average Daily Temperature in Nairobi City.
6.2.2 Average Humidity Values

Because of Nairobi’s location just south of the equator in combination with humid air pumped in from the
Indian Ocean, the humidity values for each day are generally on the higher end (See Table 2).
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec
9.00 .M 79 74 82 86 85 85 83 85 82 80 36 83
3.00 P.M 45 37 43 53 55 59 53 53 50 47 57 54
Table 3: Mean Relative Humidity Values (%).
This is not to say that values are always high, since the easterly winds coming off the Indian Ocean tend to
keep the temperatures standard throughout the country; therefore the “warm sticky” feeling is usually not
associated with Nairobi as much as one would think. In the summer to autumn months of January to April,
relative humidity values have been known to plummet to anywhere from 10% to 20%. The typical day,
humidity-wise, starts off with nearly saturated in the morning hours, and steadily decreases throughout the
remainder of the day.
6.2.3 Average Rain Amounts

With these routinely high relative humidity figures, it is not surprising that the Nairobi climate is one that
produces much rain annually. In fact, from the past 50 years, the expected amount of rain could be
anywhere in the range of 500 to 1500 mm, with the average ringing in at 900 mm. The majority of these
rainfall figures crash down in Nairobi in one major and one minor monsoon seasons respectively. The
major monsoon season occurs within the months of March to May, and is called the “Long Rains” by the
locals. The minor monsoon seasons emerges within the October to December Months, and is called the
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“Short Rains” by the Nairobi citizens. That is what the meteorologists as a whole know about the monsoon
seasons. What they do not know is exactly when these seasons will start.
There is usually not an indication of when these rainy seasons will start, since it is difficult to determine
when one starts and when the other finishes. Consequently, a person may think there is only one rainy
season when looking at the annual rainfall amounts (See Table 3).
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
48 48 115 195 137 42 15 21 24 52 114 77
Table 4: The average rainfall (mm) for each month of the year, based on the records for 50 years.
6.2.4 Average Winds

Winds along the surface are predominantly easterly throughout the entire year. They are shifted to
northeast between October and April, and they are shifted southeast between May and September. Right
before the “Long Rains” season, the strongest winds occur, reaching speeds of 20 to 25 miles per hour.
During the rest of the year, winds are usually at speeds of 10 to 15 miles per hour. During the night, the
winds are calm.
6.2.5 Average Sunshine

Early mornings in Nairobi are often cloudy, but the sun peeks through by mid-morning. Throughout the
year, there is an average of seven hours of sunshine per day. Thirty percent more sunlight reaches the
ground during the afternoon than in the morning. Of course, there is more sunshine during the summer
months, when the sun is more overhead in the Southern Hemisphere. Infrequently during the rainy season
the sun never show through the clouds. Even in August, the cloudiest month, there is an average of four
hours of sunshine.
6.2.6 Infrastructure
Due to such rapid urban growth, provision of basic infrastructure for all has become an important concern
of development planners in Nairobi. Basic infrastructural services that have deteriorated due to such rapid
increase in population include: Solid Waste Management (SWM) system; water and sewage systems;
drainage and flood protection; roads; mass transportation; electric installations; and telecommunications.
Greater environmental pollution, congestion and other problems have been the result of under-provision of
such basic services.
The city is well served, with good communication and transport network such as air, road, and railway. It
is centrally located to serve the Eastern African countries. Bus and train stations are within an easy walk of
the City Centre. The main railway line runs from Mombasa to Malaba though Nairobi City. This network
facilitates transportation of agricultural products from western Kenya to the coast. The city is a hub of road
transport connecting other major towns in the country. On air transport Jomo Kenyatta International airport
makes it easy to transport goods from all over the world into the country and vice verse.
6.2.7 Population
The cosmopolitan capital of Kenya, currently houses over 4 million people with a growth rate estimated at
7% which represents 51% of the country’s urban population. Nairobi City has one of the highest urban
population densities in the country of up to 3,079 persons per square kilometre, bringing with it the
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associated needs for housing facilities. Such needs can be catered for by establishment of adequate
facilities such as these houses that will provide living room for the ever-increasing population.
6.2.8 Economic Activities

Nairobi city is the centre of commercial, manufacturing and industrial development in East Africa. The
major economic activities in Nairobi City include trade. Like most modern cities, Nairobi has crowded
markets and trading areas, middle class suburbs, and spacious mansions for the rich and powerful. It also
has vast overcrowded tenements and slums, exploitation, and high unemployment.
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7 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
7.0 Introduction
Interviews were carried out in the neighbourhood by the use of one on one conversations and printed
questionnaires to find out all the views from the neighbours’ within Githioko estate towards the Eastern
Industrial Park project.
The main purpose for such interviews was to identify the positive and negative impacts and subsequently
promote and mitigate them respectively. It also helped in identifying any other miscellaneous issues which
may bring conflicts in case project implementation proceeds as planned.
The questionnaires have since been submitted to NEMA.
7.1 Issues raised
Employment creation
The project’s phases have and will continue to offer both direct and indirect opportunities for employment
because of its nature and by considering its size.
7.1.1 Noise and dust

There was concern over the possibility high noise and dust levels in the project site as a result of
construction works due to its relative proximity to their learning facility – especially the opposite high
school. The sources of noise pollution will include transport vehicles, construction machinery and metal
grinding and cutting equipment. Concern was raised over possibility of generation of large amount of dust
within the project site and surrounding areas as a result of transportation of building materials.
7.1.2 Power, Water & sewer system demand

Issues of increased water demand were raised in the public participation exercise. The neighbours
expressed concern about the inadequacy of water, absence of power and sewerage services within the area
which is likely to worsen with the eventual population upsurge and recommended that either the NWSC,
KPLC and other involved stakeholders to expand their serviced and line to cover this very potential area
7.1.3 Impacts of Increased population on the neighbourhood

As a result of the proposed Project taking place, population increase is likely to be experienced in the area.
This will be as a result of people coming from different places to look for jobs at the site and also to look
for residential houses to stay in around.
The negative impacts due to increased population in the neighbourhood that will result from establishment
of the Project include increased population without commensurate services and facilities; increased
pressure on infrastructure; air pollution; water pollution and generation wastes among others which
however can be mitigated.
7.2 Positive impacts:
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The construction of the proposed Project is expected to provide direct and indirect employment to a
number of people whose majority will be from the immediate neighbourhood. However, the exact number
cannot be predetermined at this stage. These range from unskilled casual workers, semi skilled and formal
employees.
Specifically, the services of the following groups of people will be required during the construction phase:
 Supervising Engineers;
 Architects;
 Structural Engineers;
 Mechanical and Electrical Engineers;
 Surveyors;
 Environmentalists;
 Heavy duty truck Drivers;
 Building Contractors;
 Site managers and Foremen;
 Construction workers (Masons, Welders, Carpenters, Painters, Electricians, Plumbers, Casual labours
among others);  Security agents; and  Transporters.
 Other neighbours with different needs will tap from this influx of professionals/people pool as well.
Given the Project size and the duration that the construction will take, employment will be short lived.
However, for the few who will be employed, their standards of living will improve within the duration of
employment.
The site workers will provide a market for the local food vendors and kiosks for the duration of the Project
construction.
7.3 Aesthetic impacts

There was no concern at all about the proposed park’s visual interference with the area as it is expected to
blend harmoniously with the area’s topography. It should be noted that due to public demand and minimal
commercial housing facilities available, many more are likely to come in the future in a bid to narrow the
existing industrial gaps as stimulated by the economy.
7.4 Decentralization of the other Industrial Centres

By constructing the Eastern Industrial Park, the companies and individuals who shall acquire Commercial
spaces there will ease much of the concentration within the city centre by relocating some personnel to the
centre’s outskirts which in turn lowers the populace within the already established but congested industrial
zones.
Other commuters and traffic which were initially headed to these industrial centres will either be diverted
or reduced and diverted to this new business hub in the outskirt thus lessening the traffic load on the
neighbouring town routes.
7.5 Creation of Other Business Avenues

Other numerous dependent businesses will be opened to cater for the occupants of the commercial spaces
more efficient/homely. These may include Restaurants, Internet and Coffee Cafes, Salons and Barber
Shops, Massage parlours, Gyms amongst others.
8 POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
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8.1 Introduction
This chapter outlines the potential negative and positive impacts that will be associated with the
commercial development project. The impacts will be related to activities to be carried out during
construction of the project. The operational phase impacts of the project will be associated with the
activities carried out by the residents/tenants, which will mainly be domestic. In addition, closure and
decommissioning phase impacts of the project are also highlighted.
The impacts of the Commercial Housing project during each of its life cycle stages (construction,
operation and decommissioning) can be categorized into: impacts on the biophysical environment; health
and safety impacts and socio-economic impacts.
8.2 Negative environmental impacts of construction activities
8.2.1 Clearance of the site

Since the construction work had already commenced, other site preliminary preparations had been done,
however the alternative mitigation measures arising from any envisaged positive and any negative
environmental impacts must be put in place to restore the greenery once the construction is complete.
8.2.2 Soil disturbance

Clearances of land and excavation works always lead to exposure of soil to erosion agents at the project
site and release of sediments into the drainage systems. Uncontrolled soil erosion can have adverse effects
on the local water bodies.
8.2.3 Dust generation

During construction, the project will generate substantial quantities of dust at the construction site and its
surrounding. The sources of dust emissions will include excavation and levelling works, and to a small
extent, transport vehicles delivering building materials. Emission of large quantities of dust may lead to
significant impacts on construction workers and the local residents, which will be accentuated during dry
weather conditions.
8.2.4 Solid waste generation

Large quantities of solid waste will be generated as a result of the disused or discarded building materials
and other related infrastructure. Such waste will consist of metal cuttings, rejected materials, surplus
materials, surplus spoil, excavated materials, paper bags, empty cartons, empty paint and solvent
containers, broken glass among others.
Such solid waste materials can be injurious to the environment through blockage of drainage systems,
choking of water bodies and negative impacts on human and animal health. This may be accentuated by
the fact that some of the waste materials contain hazardous substances such as paints, cement, adhesives
and cleaning solvents, while some of the waste materials including metal cuttings and plastic containers
are not biodegradable and can have long-term and cumulative effects on the environment.
8.2.5 Noise and vibration

The construction works, delivery of building materials by heavy trucks and the use of
machinery/equipment including bulldozers, generators, metal grinders and concrete mixers will contribute
high levels of noise and vibration within the construction site and the surrounding area. Elevated noise
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levels within the site can affect project workers and the residents, passers-by and other persons within the
vicinity of the project site.
8.2.6 Pollution of Njiru River

Pollution of Njiru River can occur at the construction stage from improper disposal of wastes, erosion of
dug out soil, contamination when fetching water and contamination by human wastes if toilets are dug too
close to the river.
8.2.7 Water use

The construction activities will require large quantities of water that is supplied by the Ruiru - Juja &
Sewerage Company. Water will mainly be used for concrete mixing, sanitary and washing purposes.
Excessive water use may negatively impact on the water source and its sustainability.
8.2.8 Energy consumption

The project will consume fossil fuels (mainly diesel) or electricity to run transport vehicles and
construction machinery. Fossil energy is non-renewable and its excessive use may have serious
environmental implications on its availability, price and sustainability.
Picture 9: Reliable power source point along the plot from which the project's will be sourced.
The project will also use electricity supplied by Kenya Power & Lighting Company (KPLC) Ltd.
Electricity in Kenya is generated mainly through natural resources, namely, water and geothermal
resources. In this regard, there will be need to use electricity sparingly since high consumption of
electricity negatively impacts on these natural resources and their sustainability.
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8.2.9 Extraction and use of building materials
Building materials such as hard core, ballast, cement, rough stone and sand required for construction of the
housing project will be obtained from quarries, hardware shops and sand harvesters who extract such
materials from natural resource banks such as rivers and land.
Since substantial quantities of these materials will be required for construction of the buildings, the
availability and sustainability of such resources at the extraction sites will be negatively affected, as they
are not renewable in the short term. In addition, the sites from which the materials will be extracted may
be significantly affected in several ways including landscape changes, displacement of animals and
vegetation, poor visual quality and opening of depressions on the surface leading to several human and
animal health impacts.
8.2.10 Exhaust emissions

The trucks used to transport various building materials from their sources to the project site will contribute
to increases in emissions of CO2, NOx and fine particles along the way as a result of diesel combustion.
Such emissions can lead to several environmental impacts including global warming and health impacts.
Because large quantities of building materials are required, some of which are sourced outside the area,
such emissions can be enormous and may affect a wide geographical area. The impacts of such emissions
can be greater in areas where the materials are sourced and at the construction site as a result of frequent
gunning of vehicle engines, frequent vehicle turning and slow vehicle movement in the loading and
offloading areas.
8.2.11 Risks of accidents and injuries to workers

Because of the intensive engineering and construction activities including erection and fastening of roofing
materials, metal grinding and cutting, concrete work, steel erection and welding among others,
construction workers will be exposed to risks of accidents and injuries. Such injuries can result from
accidental falls from high elevations, injuries from hand tools and construction equipment cuts from sharp
edges of metal sheets and collapse of building sections among others.
8.3 Positive Environmental Impacts of Construction Activities
8.3.1 Provision of market for supply of building materials

The project will require supply of large quantities of building materials most, of which will be sourced
locally in Juja and the surrounding areas. This provides ready market for building material suppliers such
as quarrying companies, hardware shops and individuals with such materials.
8.3.2 Increased business opportunities

The large number of project staff required will provide ready market for various goods and services,
leading to several business opportunities for small-scale traders such as food vendors around the
construction site.
8.3.3 Creation of employment opportunities

Several employment opportunities will be created for construction workers during the construction phase
of the project. This will be a significant impact since unemployment is currently quite high in the area and
the country at large.
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8.4 Negative environmental impacts of operational activities
8.4.1 Solid waste generation

The project is expected to generate substantial amounts of solid waste during its operation phase. The bulk
of the solid waste generated during the operation of the project will consist of paper, plastic, glass, metal,
textile and organic wastes. Such wastes can be injurious to the environment through blockage of drainage
systems, choking of water bodies and negative impacts on animal health.
Some of these waste materials especially the plastic/polythene are not biodegradable may cause long-term
injurious effects to the environment. Even the biodegradable ones such as organic wastes may be injurious
to the environment because as they decompose, they produce methane gas, a powerful greenhouse gas
known to contribute to global warming.
8.4.2 Water use

The domestic activities during the operation phase of the project will involve the use of large quantities of
water which will exert excess demand on available supply
8.4.3 Increased demand for sanitation

The project involves the transformation of a bare and under-utilized piece of land site into a minor
commercial hub in this eastern region by constructing these lettable godowns constituting the Eastern
Industrial Park. This will lead to increased demand for sanitation and sewage disposal.
8.4.4 Increased storm water flow

The building roofs and pavements will lead to increased volume and velocity of storm water or run-off
flowing across the area covered by the Eastern Industrial Park. This will lead to increased amounts of
storm water entering the drainage systems, resulting in overflow and damage to such systems in addition
to increased erosion or water logging in the neighbouring areas.
8.4.5 Fire and Noise

Hazards like fire outbreaks and excessive noise usually occur due to negligence or improper maintenance
of machinery e.g. poor handling of electricity systems, faulty electrical/mechanical equipment, and
carelessness .It is important to consider prepare one for such emergencies. In this regard, the design of the
project has provided and recommended implementation of fire fighting measures and control facilities.
This includes the following:

Install an automatic fire alarm system for the entire development.
Provide enough 30m hose reel around the property.
Allow for 500 litres fire reserve water tank attached with an automatic booster pump for
hose reel.
Provide enough 9 kg dry powder fire extinguisher for the property.
Provide enough 9 kg CO2 fire extinguisher for the property.
Provide appropriate Fire Hydrant Ring main with suitable Outlet Points.
Provide fire hydrants
All installation to the council Fire Masters requirements approval
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In addition to the above, the structure management should consider the following:
Conduct regular fire fighting drills within the scheme. This will facilitate training and sensitization of the
tenants.
Adapt an emergency response plan for the entire scheme.
Ensure that all firefighting equipment are strategically positioned, regularly maintained and
service.
Provide fire hazard signs such as ‘No Smoking’ signs. Directions to exit in case of any fire incidence and
emergency contact numbers should be provided.
Contact/emergency numbers should be displayed generously within the project area.
8.5 Positive environmental impacts of operational activities
8.5.1 Provision of Commercial Housing space facilities

The project will provide numerous modern Commercial Housing spaces to Njiru residents. This impact
will be significant since Juja area is currently experiencing a shortage of commercial housing facilities vis-
a vis the area’s demand.
8.5.2 Employment opportunities

Several people will be employed by the project as management agents, caretakers, cleaners, security
personnel and technicians thus the operational cost will also be related to employment generation.
8.5.3 Revenue to national and local governments

Through payment of relevant taxes, rates and fees to the government and the local authority, the housing
project will contribute towards the national and local revenue earnings.
8.5.4 Improved security

Security will be ensured around the Eastern Industrial Park through distribution of suitable security lights
and presence of 24-hour security guards. This will lead to improvement in the general security in the
surrounding area.
8.5.5 Business growth in the area

Once the construction work is finished, the site’s proximity to a major access road and high population in
the neighbourhood, numerous business enthusiasts will launch various commercial ventures associated
with these settings thus enhancing the economic growth in this area.
8.5.6 Decongestion of the nearby urban centres

As offices, jobs and other commercial developments decentralise from the city, majority of the users will
limit their visits to the city as services and supply move out of the city hence decongestion of both human
and automobile throngs within the neighbouring towns
8.6 Negative environmental impacts of decommissioning activities

Although there are no plans to decommission (reversing the site/land to original virgin status by removing
the construction works on it) the planned project any time in the foreseeable future, decommissioning
phase is still an important phase in the project life cycle. In the event that the proposed residence is to be
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decommissioned at the end of the project life cycle or sooner, the following will be the potential positive
and negative impacts
8.6.1 Solid waste

Demolition of the project buildings and related infrastructure will result in large quantities of solid waste.
The waste will consist of demolition debris including concrete, metal, drywall, wood, glass, paints,
adhesives, sealants and fasteners.
Although demolition waste is generally considered as less harmful to the environment since they are
composed of inert materials, there is growing evidence that large quantities of such waste may lead to
release of certain hazardous chemicals into the environment. In addition, even the generally non-toxic
chemicals such as chloride, sodium, sulphate and ammonia, which may be released as a result of leaching
of demolition waste, are known to lead to degradation of groundwater quality.
8.6.2 These may include:

 Loss of employment to the industrial employees
 Reduction in availability of industrial housing
 Generation of solid waste from demolition rubble and decommissioned facilities
 Occupational health and safety impacts
 Disturbance to neighbours from noise, noise, dust and vibrations
8.6.3 Dust
Large quantities of dust will be generated during demolition works. This will affect demolition staff as
well as the neighbouring residents.
8.6.4 Noise and vibration

The demolition works will lead to significant deterioration of the acoustic environment within the project
site and the surrounding areas.
8.7 Positive environmental impacts of decommissioning activities

8.7.1 These may include:
 Availability of land for other uses
 No generation of waste and wastewater
 Opportunity to replant trees
 Enhanced aesthetics
8.7.2 Rehabilitation
Upon decommissioning the project, rehabilitation of the project site will be carried out to restore the site to
its original status. This will include replacement of topsoil and re-vegetation that will lead to improved
visual quality of the area.
8.7.3 Employment Opportunities

Several employment opportunities will be created for demolition staff during the decommissioning phase.
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9 ANALYSIS OF PROJECT ALTERNATIVES
This section analyses the project alternatives in terms of site, technology scale and waste management
options.
9.1 Alternative Site (Relocation Option)
Relocation option to a different site is an option available for the Project implementation. However, at
present the landowner/developer does not have an alternative site. This means that he has to look for the
land. Looking for the land to accommodate the scale and size of the Project and completing official
transaction on it may take up to two (2) years or longer although there is no guarantee that the land would
be available. The developer will spend another one year on design and approvals since design and planning
has to be according to site conditions. Project design and planning before the stage of implementation will
cost the developer a large sum of money. Whatever has been done and paid to date will be counted as a
loss to the developer.
Assuming the Project will be given a positive response by the relevant authorities including NEMA, this
Project would have been delayed for about two (2) years period before implementation. This is a delay that
our economy can ill afford. This would also lead to a situation like No Project Alternative option. The
other consequence of this is that it would be a discouragement for private/local investors especially in the
housing sector that has been shunned by many public and private investors already aggravating our critical
industrial housing shortages. In consideration of the above concerns and assessment of the current
proposed site, relocation of the Project is not a viable option.
9.2 Alternative Design

Planning, designing and implementation of the project to fit and suit the site in question require time,
sourcing of various professionals involved and monetary sacrifices to facilitate their progress. The team
ranging from, site planners, surveyors, architects, environmentalist, project managers and many more
dedicates their time and resources with a common goal at the end of the period to ensure that the mutually
agreed target is attained within the specified time frame. Changing the design may mean greater loss in
time, money and resources which could have been diverted to develop other sectors in the general
endeavour for economic and environmental sustainability.
9.3 Analysis of the Construction Materials and Technology

The Eastern Industrial Park will be constructed using modern, locally and internationally accepted
materials to achieve public health, safety, security and environmental aesthetic requirements. Equipment
that saves energy and water will be given first priority without compromising on cost or availability
factors. The concrete pillars and walls will be made using locally sourced stones, cement, sand (washed
and clean), metal bars and fittings that meet the Kenya Bureau of Standards requirements.
Beautiful and durable clay tiles will be used because they are good in heat insulation as compared to the
iron sheet roofs. This will ensure that the rainwater harvested will be used in gardening. Heavy use of
timber during construction is discouraged because of destruction of forests. The exotic species would be
preferred to indigenous species in the construction where need will arise.
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9.4 Solid Waste Management Alternatives
A lot of solid wastes will be generated from the proposed Project. An integrated solid waste management
system is recommendable.
First, the proponent will give priority to Reduction at Source of the materials. This option will demand a
solid waste management awareness programme in the management and the residents.
Secondly, Recycling, Reuse and composting of the waste will be the second alternative in priority. This
will call for a source separation programme to be put in place. The waste will be sold to waste buyers
within the surrounding area or be collected by a private waste management company.
The third priority in the hierarchy of options is combustion of the waste that is not recyclable. Finally,
sanitary land filling will be the last option for the proponent.
9.5 No Alteration Alternative

The No Alteration and Addition option in respect to the proposed project implies that the proponent does
not continue with the initial intention developing the Eastern Industrial Park. This option is the most
unsuitable alternative from an extreme environmental perspective as it ensures non-interference with the
existing conditions. This option will however, involve several losses both to the landowner and the
community as a whole. The landowner will not conform to the area’s changing economic trends while the
property undergoes stiff competition from other similar developments in the area. This Option would be
the least preferred from the socio-economic and partly environmental perspective due to the following
factors:
 The economic status of the Kenyans and the local people would remain unchanged.
 The local skills in entrepreneurship would remain under utilized.
 Reduced visitation due to lack of accommodation in the Community that the project is proposed.
 Reduced interaction both at local, national and international levels.
 Few employment opportunities will be created for numerous numbers of Kenyans who will work in the
housing project area.
 Increased urban poverty and crime in Kenya.
 All the potential benefits would be lost

 Loss of the financial inputs already used in the investments including consultancy fees to the project’s
manager, architect, structural engineer, environmentalist e.t.c.
 The current utility of the site will be minimized
Additionally, these envisaged success factors and key selling points may not be realised including;
 The proposed Eastern Industrial Park has a prime location on the Eastern Bypass, only 10 km off the main
Thika Super Highway and connecting smoothly to Mombasa Road.
 The most important factor will be high security within the park with only one entrance/exit gate for the
entire development.
 Government support and incentives will encourage industries to move into the park thus avoiding scattered
development and its adverse effects.
 World class industrial infrastructure including sufficient power supply, water supply, roads and lighting,
and waste management.
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 All supporting amenities and facilities e.g. commercial area, wholesale outlet markets, hospitals, police
station, power sub-station, public transport stages, shopping malls, banks, etc.
 Eastern Industrial Park will be a case study for the rest of Africa, which will invite a huge foreign
investment.
From the analysis above, it becomes apparent that the No Project alternative is no alternative to the local
people, Kenyans, and the government of Kenya.
10 IMPACTS MITIGATION AND MONITORING
10.1 Introduction
This chapter highlights the necessary mitigation measures that will be adopted to prevent or minimize
significant negative environmental, health and safety impacts associated with the activities the project
during its construction, operation and decommissioning phases. Allocation of responsibilities, time frame
and estimated costs for implementation of these measures are presented in the environmental management
programme (EMP) in Chapter 9.
10.2 Mitigation of construction phase impacts
10.2.1 Minimization of run-off and soil erosion

The proponent will put in place some measures aimed at minimizing soil erosion and associated sediment
release from the project site during construction. These measures will include terracing and levelling the
project site to reduce run-off velocity and increase infiltration of rainwater into the soil. In addition,
construction vehicles will be restricted to designated areas to avoid soil compaction within the project site,
while any compacted areas will be ripped to reduce run-off.
10.2.2 Minimization of construction waste

It is recommended that demolition and construction waste be recycled or reused to ensure that materials
that would otherwise be disposed of as waste are diverted for productive uses. In this regard, the proponent
is committed to ensuring that construction materials left over at the end of construction will be used in
other projects rather than being disposed of. In addition, damaged or wasted construction materials
including cabinets, doors, plumbing and lighting fixtures, marbles and glass will be recovered for
refurbishing and use in other projects. Such measures will involve the sale or donation of such
recyclable/reusable materials to construction companies, local community groups, institutions and
individual residents or homeowners.
The proponent shall put in place measures to ensure that construction materials requirements are carefully
budgeted and to ensure that the amount of construction materials left on site after construction is kept
minimal.
It is further recommended that the proponent should consider the use of recycled or refurbished
construction materials. Purchasing and using once-used or recovered construction materials will lead to
financial savings and reduction of the amount of construction debris disposed of as waste.
Additional recommendations for minimization of solid waste during construction of the project include:-
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i. Use of durable, long- lasting materials that will not need to be replaced as often, thereby
reducing the amount of construction waste generated over time.
ii. Provision of facilities for proper handling and storage of construction materials to
reduce
the amount of waste caused by damage or exposure to the elements of nature i.e. sunshine, rain etc
iii. Use of building materials that have minimal packaging to avoid the generation of
excessive packaging waste
iv. Use of construction materials containing recycled content when possible and in
accordance with accepted standards.
10.2.3 Reduction of dust generation and emission

Dust emission during construction will be minimized through strict enforcement of onsite speed controls as
well as limiting unnecessary traffic within the project site. In addition, it is recommended that excavation
works be carried out in wet weather; and traffic routes on site be sprinkled with water regularly to reduce
amount of dust generated by the construction trucks especially during dry seasons. Additionally, shade
netting should be done.
10.2.4 Minimization of noise and vibration

Noise and vibration will be minimized in the project site and surrounding areas through sensitization of
construction truck drivers to switch off vehicle engines while offloading materials. In addition, they will be
instructed to avoid gunning of vehicle engines or hooting especially when passing through sensitive areas
such as churches, residential areas and hospitals.
In addition, construction machinery shall be kept in good condition to reduce noise generation. It is
recommended that all generators and heavy duty equipment be insulated or placed in enclosures to
minimize ambient noise levels.
10.2.5 Minimization of water use

The proponent shall ensure that water is used efficiently at the site by sensitizing construction staff to
avoid irresponsible water usage.
10.2.6 Reduction of energy consumption

The proponent shall ensure responsible electricity use at the construction site through sensitization of staff
to conserve electricity by switching off electrical equipment or appliances when they are not being used.
In addition, proper planning of transportation of materials will ensure that fossil fuels (diesel, petrol) are
not consumed in excessive amounts. Complementary to these measures, the proponent shall monitor
energy use during construction and set targets for reduction of energy use.
10.2.7 Efficient sourcing and use of raw materials

The proponent will source building materials such as sand, ballast and hard core from registered quarry
and sand mining firms, whose projects have undergone satisfactory environmental impact assessment/audit
and received NEMA approval. Since such firms are expected to apply acceptable environmental
performance standards, the negative impacts of their activities at the extraction sites are considerably well
mitigated.
To reduce the negative impacts on availability and sustainability of the materials, the proponent will only
order for what will be required through accurate budgeting and estimation of actual construction
requirements. This will ensure that materials are not extracted or purchased in excessive quantities.
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Moreover, the proponent will ensure that wastage, damage or loss (through run-off, wind, etc) of materials
at the construction site is kept minimal, as these would lead to additional demand for and extraction or
purchase materials.
In addition to the above measures, the proponent shall consider reuse of building materials and use of
recycled building materials. This will lead to reduction in the amount of raw materials extracted from
natural resources as well as reducing impacts at the extraction sites.
10.2.8 Minimization of exhaust emissions

This will be achieved through proper planning of transportation of materials to ensure that vehicle fills are
increased in order to reduce the number of trips done or the number of vehicles on the road. In addition
truck drivers will be sensitized to avoid unnecessary racing of vehicle engines at loading/offloading areas,
and to switch off or keep vehicle engines at these points
10.2.9 Reduction of risks of accidents and injuries to workers

The proponent is committed to adherence to the occupational health and safety rules and regulations
stipulated in Occupational Health and Safety Act (Cap 514). In this regard, the proponent is committed to
provision of appropriate personal protective equipment, as well as ensuring a safe and healthy environment
for construction workers as outlined in the EMP.
10.3 Mitigation of operation phase impacts
10.3.1 Ensuring efficient solid waste management

The proponent will be responsible for efficient management of solid waste generated by the project during
its operation. In this regard, the proponent will provide waste handling facilities such as waste bins and
skips for temporarily holding domestic waste generated at the site.
In addition, the proponent will ensure that such are disposed of regularly and appropriately. It is
recommended that the proponent puts in place measures to ensure that the occupants of the commercial
spaces manage their waste efficiently through recycling, reuse and proper disposal procedures.
10.3.2 Ensure efficient water use

The proponent will install water-conserving automatic/push taps and toilets. Moreover, any water leaks
through damaged pipes and faulty taps will be fixed promptly by qualified staff. In addition, the occupants
of the commercial spaces will be sensitized to use water efficiently.
10.3.3 Ensure efficient energy consumption

The proponent should install energy-efficient lighting system at the Eastern Industrial Park. This will
contribute immensely to energy saving during the operational phase of the project. In addition, occupants
of the Eastern Industrial Park will be sensitized to ensure energy efficiency in their domestic operations. To
complement these measures, it will be important to monitor energy use during the operation of the Eastern
Industrial Park and set targets for efficient energy use.
10.3.4 Minimization of sewage release

The proponent will ensure that there are adequate means for handling the large quantities of sewage
generated at the Eastern Industrial Park. It will also be important to ensure that sewage pipes are not
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blocked or damaged since such vices can lead to release of the effluent, resulting in land and water
contamination. Such blockages or damages will be fixed expeditiously.
10.3.5 Fire safety measures

The proponent will install and always keep in ready-to-use fire extinguishers and ensure the generally
occupants are sensitized on fire safety measures within and around the premises.
10.4 Mitigation of decommissioning phase impacts
10.4.1 Efficient solid waste management

Solid waste resulting from demolition or dismantling works will be managed as described in Section 8.2.3.
10.4.2 Reduction of dust concentration

High levels of dust concentration resulting from demolition or dismantling works will be minimized as
described in Section 8.2.4.
10.4.3 Minimization of noise and vibration

Significant impacts on the acoustic environment will be mitigated as described in Section 8.2.5.
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11 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT/MONITORING PLAN
11.1 Introduction
The Proposed Eastern Industrial Park project proponents realize that its activities has had and will have
some impacts on the biophysical environment, health and safety of its employees and members of the
public, and socio economic well being of the local residents. Thus, its main aim focuses on reducing the
negative impacts and maximizing the positive impacts associated with its activities through a programme
of continuous improvement.
An environmental management/monitoring plan has been developed to assist the proponent in mitigating
and managing environmental impacts associated with the life cycle of the project. The EMP has been
developed to provide a basis for an Environmental Management System (EMS; ISO 14001 principles) for
the project. It is noteworthy that key factors and processes may change through the life of the project and
considerable provisions have been made for dynamism and flexibility of the EMP. As such, the EMP will
be subject to a regular regime of periodic review.
Tables 5 and 6, form the core of this EMP for the construction, operational and decommissioning phases
of the housing project. In general, the Tables outline the potential safety, health and environmental risks
associated with the project and detail all the necessary mitigation measures, their financial costs, as well
as the persons responsible for their implementation and monitoring. The EMP will be used as basis in
future environmental audits.
11.2 Construction and operational phase EMP

The necessary objectives, activities, mitigation measures, and allocation of costs and responsibilities
pertaining to prevention, minimization and monitoring of significant negative impacts and maximization
of positive impacts associated with the construction and operational phases the housing project are
outlined in Table 5 below.
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Table 5: Environmental Monitoring/Management Plan.
PHASE & IMPACT MITIGATION MEASURES TIME RESPONSIBLE BUDGET
ASPECT FRAME PERSONS (KSH)
CONSTRUCTION: Loss of environmental Liaise with the Nairobi County’s department of Environment Continuous Proponent 1,500,000
Removal of trees & services provided by on permission to fell trees Utilize open spaces maximally Contractor
Vegetative cover trees including control
Do not remove trees unnecessarily
of soil erosion,
microclimatic Replant trees on completion of construction Carry out
modification; adverse landscaping of open spaces Conduct landscaping
aesthetic impacts
Participate in tree planting exercises outside whenever there is
opportunity
EIA STUDY REPORT OF THE PROPOSED INDUSTRIAL PARK DEVELOPMENT, AT GITHIOKO AREA, OFF EASTERN BY-PASS ROAD, ON PLOT L.R. No. 11522, NJIRU. -67-
Generation of Public health and safety Site levelling and excavation works to be planned such that a Continuous Proponent 2,250,000
solid waste, Site impacts; pollution of section is completed and rehabilitated while another section Contractor
river
refilling & Njiru,
begins.
Levelling land
Apply soil erosion control measures such as levelling of the
Soil Excavation/ contamination/degrada
project site to reduce run-off velocity and increase infiltration of
Erosion tion
storm water into the soil.
Construction of soil- galleys on sloppy sections.
Excavation material will be reused to level the site otherwise

be loaded into trucks and be transported to designated disposal
sites.
Provide facilities for proper handling and storage of

construction materials to reduce the amount of waste caused by
damage or exposure to the elements

Noise Pollution and Disturbance of the The noisy construction works will entirely be planned to be Continuous -Contractor 1,000,000
Vibration neighbours ; during day time when most of the neighbours will be at work. -Proponent
occupational
safety and health Trees around the site will provide some buffer against noise
impacts propagation.
Ensure that all generators and heavy duty equipment are

insulated or placed in enclosures to minimize ambient noise
levels.
Use well maintained machinery
Ensure noise is not made while playing squash Ensure

adequate sound proofing of the squash court
Use of hoarding for dust control. Sprinkling of water on dusty

surfaces. Adherence with the Building Code, Nairobi County by-
laws and EMCA (Noise and Excessive Vibration Pollution Control
Regulations and other applicable legislations.
Adequate warnings and cautionary safety signs Provision of

appropriate personal protective equipment to workers
Use of safe working procedures Creation of safety awareness

to workers Adequate job supervision

Air /Dust pollution Disturbance of the Ensure strict enforcement of on-site speed limit regulations Continuous Contractor 500,000
neighbours ; Proponent
occupational Avoid excavation works in extremely dry weathers
safety and health
Sprinkle water on graded access routes whenever necessary to
impacts
reduce dust generation by construction vehicles
OPERATION AND Adverse Aesthetic  Design and implement an appropriate landscaping programme to Continuous Proponent 3,000,00
MAINTENANCE Impacts help in re-vegetation of parts of the project area after Tenants 0
Removal of Vegetation construction
& Top soil
 Reuse of the top soil in landscaping.
Generation of solid Air, Land and Water  Minimize waste through accurate estimation of the sizes and Continuous Tenants 1,500,00
and water wastes pollution and quantities of materials required, order materials in the sizes and Proponent 0
degradation quantities they will be needed, rather than cutting them to size,
or having large quantities of residual materials.
 Provision of suitable facilities for wastewater disposal (such as a

conservancy tank )
 Ensure that the minimum statutory distance between the

facilities and the river is always maintained (minimum of 6
metres)

Ensure wastes are properly disposed of
Storm water Water pollution Open drains connected to Nairobi County storm water drains Continuous Tenants & 20,140,000
will be provided on site. Proponent
Security Insecure environment is Ensure the general safety and security at all times by providing Continuous Proponent & 30,000
not investment friendly day and night security guards and adequate lighting within and Tenants
around the premises.
Worker Occupational Occupational Health & All workers should be provide with full protective gear like Continuous Tenants 2,000,000
Health & Safety Safety Impacts working boots, overalls, helmets goggles, earmuffs, masks and Proponent
gloves.
Construction crew at the site should be sensitised on social

issues like drugs, alcohol and other diseases.
A fully equipped and professionally managed first aid kit must

be provided within the site at all times
The contractor should have workmen’s compensation cover to

comply with Work Injury Benefit Act, as well as appropriate
Ordinances, Regulations and Union Agreements.
Adequate facilities should be provided and standard

cleanliness maintained
Food handlers preparing food for the workers should be

controlled and monitored to ensure that food is hygienically
prepared.

PERSONS (KSH)
ASPECT FRAME
Use of Water and Increased demand for Avoid wasting of water supplied to the site during Continuous Tenants As per
Electricity water and electricity construction Proponent Budget
Roof catchments should be provided to harvest rainwater to

enhance collection and storage of rainwater
In order to encourage water conservation during operation

stages, the proponent should install water conserving taps that
turn off automatically when not in use.
Provide notices and information signs on means and needs to

conserve water resource to awaken civic consciousness regarding
water usage and management
Incorporate rainwater harvesting in the project design

Water reuse and/or recycling
Installation of water and electricity meters
Consider solar energy harvesting and optimize on natural lighting

in the project design
Use of energy efficient machines and appliances
Provision of a standby generator
Generation of Pollution of the Njiru Provide a suitable toilet for construction workers away from the Continuous Tenants As per
human waste River; public health river Proponent Budget
impacts Ensure sewage disposal system is well maintained
Generation of gaseous Air pollution, Use of low sulphur diesel for diesel vehicles and equipment Proper Continuous Tenants As per
emissions occupational and maintenance of vehicles and machinery Proponent Budget
public health and
safety impacts
Use of fire at Fire risks Provision of suitable fire fighting equipment Sensitize workers on Continuous Tenants As per
Within the Park fire safety Proponent Budget
11.3 Decommissioning Phase

Although there are no plans to decommission (reversing the site/land to original virgin status by removing the construction works on
it) the planned project any time in the foreseeable future, decommissioning phase is still an important phase in the project life cycle.
In the event that the proposed residence is to be decommissioned at the end of the project life cycle or sooner, the following will be
the potential positive and negative impacts
In addition to the mitigation measures provided in Table 5 above, it is necessary to outline some basic mitigation measures that will
be required to be undertaken once all operational activities of the housing project have ceased. The necessary objectives, mitigation
measures, allocation of responsibilities, time frames and costs pertaining to prevention, minimization and monitoring of all potential
impacts associated with the decommissioning and closure phase of the housing project are outlined in Table 6 below.
Table 6: Environmental Management/Monitoring Plan for the Decommissioning Phase of Proposed Eastern Industrial Park.
DE-COMMISS- IMPACT
IONING Responsible Time Cost
Recommended Mitigation Measures
PHASE Party Frame (Kshs.)
(ASPECT)
DE-COMMISS- IMPACT
IONING Responsible Time Cost
Recommended Mitigation Measures
PHASE Party Frame (Kshs.)
(ASPECT)
Demolition of the Disturbance of Implement an appropriate revegetation programme to Contractor, One-off As per
existing Structures the restore the site to its original status Proponent budget
neighbours ;
occupational Consider use of indigenous plant species in
Disturbance of revegetation
the
neighbours ; Generally trees should be planted to increase the areas
occupational greenery, regulate air and reduce wind impacts on the
area.
12 AUXILLIARY INFORMATION
12.1 Budget
The summary of the Bills of Quantities that form the budget of the project is as follows:
Table 7: Summary of the Project's Bills of Quantities.

ITEM COST (KSH)
General Conditions and Preliminaries 16,853,148
Building Works 552,105,556
External Works 14,259,259
Special Installations 25,407,407
Storm Water Drainage 14,773,889
Foul Drainage 19,128,148
Water Reticulation 13,270,030
External Electrical Installations 16,735,185
Other Externalities 10,615,526
Contingencies 16,851,852
TOTAL PROJECT COST 950,000,000
12.2 Monitoring Guidelines

Continuous observations and assessment is essential so that if foreseen safety dangers are noticed, alternatives must be sort for. Risk
assessment of fire outbreaks, and others should not be ignored in the construction plan. Waste management in the block should be
strictly followed. Mitigation measures of storm water management are also essential. Safety standards should constantly be
maintained, in brief, monitoring guidelines could be based on the following parameters:
Physical water qualities including colour and other variables like Biological Oxygen Demand and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD).
This is to be done with guidance from the NW & SC as the lead agency responsible for water issues.
Floral and faunal life species is in the surrounding
Environmental Health and safety measures using such standards as ISO 14000 and EMS and the laid down regulatory
framework
Waste management
Examine the changing land use patterns including those for residential, ecological and economic purposes
Accidents and risk assessment arising from the use of water, roads, electricity and or any other amenity
12.3 Studying
Constant studying by the site contractor to the architect is necessary to ensure the project is executed as per the architectural drawings.
The safety officer should always remain on site to study any safety concerns for urgent mitigation. He should also at all times enforce
safety requirements as per the relevant legislation. The contractor must consult the architect to maintain a clear understanding of all
the aspects of the project
12.4 Conclusion and Recommendations

During the preparation of this study for the development of the proposed development it was observed and established that most of the
negative impacts on the environment are rated low and short term with no significant effect. The negative environmental impacts that
will result from establishment of the project which include increased population without commensurate services and facilities;
increased pressure on infrastructure; air pollution; water pollution and generation wastes among others which however can be
mitigated.
The positive impacts are highly rated and will benefit all stakeholders and the Njiru and its surrounding areas residents at large. The
project proponents have proposed to adhere to prudent implementation of the environmental management plan. They are obtaining all
necessary permits and licenses from the relevant authorities and have qualified and adequate personnel to do the project as proposed.
They have proposed adequate safety and health mitigation measures as part of the relevant statutory requirements
This project should be licensed subject to annual environmental audits once it has been commissioned. This will be in compliance with
the Environmental Management and coordination Act of 1999 and the Environmental Impact Assessment and Audit regulations 2003.
13 APPENDICES:
 Architectural Designs and Drawings.

 Questionnaires From Public Interviews Conducted.
 Copy Of Title Deed  Deed Plan
KINDLY NOTE, THAT ALL THE ABOVE LISTED DOCUMENTS HAVE BEEN SUBMITTED TO NEMA ON 10 TH
JANUARY 2014.
14 REFERENCES:
Kenya gazette supplement Acts 2000, Environmental Management and Coordination Act Number 8 of 1999. Government printer,
Nairobi
Kenya gazette supplement Acts Building Code 2000 by government printer, Nairobi
Kenya gazette supplement Acts Land Planning Act (Cap. 303) government printer, Nairobi
Kenya gazette supplement Acts Local Authority Act (Cap. 265) government printer, Nairobi
Kenya gazette supplement Acts Penal Code Act (Cap.63) government printer, Nairobi
Kenya gazette supplement Acts Physical Planning Act, 1999 government printer, Nairobi
Kenya gazette supplement Acts Public Health Act (Cap. 242) government printer, Nairobi
Kenya gazette supplement number 56. Environmental Impact Assessment and Audit Regulations 2003. Government printer, Nairobi
Thika District Development plan (2004-2008). Ministry of Planning and National Development. Government printers, Nairobi
15 SIGNATORIES:
We, the under signed, hereby approve that all information given here in this study is accurate and true according to the best of our
knowledge and understanding.
PROPONENT
NAME……………………………………………………………………………….………………..…
POSITION……………………………………………………………………………………….……...
SIGNATURE……………………………………………………………………………….………...…
DATE…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
FIRM OF EXPERTS
EHS RESOURCE CENTRE LTD (REG No.: 0554)
SIGNATURE………………………………………………………………………………………..……
DATE……………………………………………………………………….…………………………….

EIA 1131eastern Industrial Parkinfinity EIA

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Acknowledgement

3 CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES ....................................................................................................................... 20

6 BASELINE INFORMATION OF THE STUDY AREA ................................................................................... 46

8 POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ................................................................................................ 52

Table 1: Quality standards for sources of domestic

1.2 Justification of the Proposed Project.

1.3 Project and Environmental Impact Assessment Objectives.

1.4 Scope of the EIA Study.

1.5 Terms of Reference.

The Proposed Project Objectives:

Present Environmental Conditions;

Identification of Environmental Impacts:

Analysis of the Alternatives to the Proposed Project:

Community/ Stakeholder Consultations:

Cost- Benefit Analysis:

Development of an Environmental Management Plan (EMP):

Development of a Monitoring Plan:

2.0 Project Description

a. Direct Foreign Investment

c. Export Promotion and Diversification

d. Technology and Skills Transfer

e. Backward and Forward Linkages(Multiplier –Effects)to the Economy

f. Value Addition and Economic Growth

g. Conservation of the Environment

The negative Impacts associated with the proposed project are:

3.0 Background and Rationale for an Environmental Impact Assessment

 To develop a secure high-end industrial park with world class infrastructure.

3.4 Scope and content of project

Consequently, the study will provide the following:-

3.5 Duties of the Proponent

3.6 Duties of the Contractor

4.1 Environmental Problems in Kenya

4.2 POLICY FRAMEWORK

4.3 INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK

4.3.1 National Environment Management Authority (NEMA)

National Environment Secretariat (NES),

4.3.2 Environmental Management and Coordination Act (EMCA), 1999

4.3.4 Public Complaints Committee

4.3.5 Nairobi City Council

4.3.6 Nairobi Water & Sewerage Company

City sewerage service,

4.4 National Environmental Tribunal

4.5 LEGAL AND REGULATORY FRAMEWORK

4.5.1 The Environmental (Impact Assessment and Audit) Regulations, 2003

Regulation 4(1) further states that:

4.5.2 Waste Management Regulations, 2006

(i) Conserving raw materials and energy;

(b) Monitoring the product cycle from beginning to end by:

(i) Identifying and eliminating potential negative impacts of the product;

(c) Incorporating environmental concerns in the design and disposal of a product.

 Permissible noise levels;

4.5.4 Water Quality Regulations, 2006

Table 1: Quality standards for sources of domestic water

Parameter Guide Value (Maximum allowable)

4.5.5 Public Health Act (Cap. 242)

4.5.6 Physical Planning Act, 1999

4.5.7 Local Authority Act (Cap 265).

4.5.8 Water Act, 2002

1. Provision of conservation of water and 2.

4.5.9 Building Code 2000

4.5.10 Occupational Safety and Health Act, 2007

The key areas addressed by the Act include:

4.5.14 Wayleaves Act Cap 292