Kenya Forest Service and the Born Free Foundation (BFF) have issued a warning about the garbage heap near Murera gate.

Waste from Maua town and other markets based in three sub-counties is dumped at Murera dumpsite. Conservationists says that wind and rain water carry the waste from the dumpsite to the park.

Murera gate is a home of the Big Five and a host of other vegetation and wildlife.

Lorry-loads of garbage are transported from Maua, Kiengu, Laare, Mutuate and other areas in Igembe region and dumped in the vicinity of the Meru National Park.

“Not less than five lorries bring waste here from Maua and other areas. It is a disgrace because we know wildlife in the Meru National Park face danger from poachers and diseases. I think this dumpsite is also a potential source of disease and danger to animals inside the park,” said Stanley Miriti, a resident of Murera.

“Dumpsites and solid waste management should be well-thought-out. It does not help in conservation if the dumpsites are near sheltered areas. You do not know whether materials dumped there can get into the park and distress the vegetation and wildlife,” said Kenya Forest Service’s Meru ecosystem conservator.

Meru County Wildlife, Environment and Natural Resources Chief Officer Lawrence Mwebia accused residents of dumping plastics and other materials that are smuggled into the country.

. “A dumpsite near a protected area is not good for wildlife. Waste such as plastic can find its way into the park,” said Mr Mwebia.

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