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The Environment and Land Court in Nakuru has issued an interim injunction suspending Phase II geothermal drilling at Menengai Crater following a public interest lawsuit filed by Baboon Project Kenya against the Geothermal Development Company (GDC).
The non-profit organization petitioned the court to suspend or revoke licenses issued to GDC for geothermal activities at Menengai, citing alleged environmental and human rights violations.
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In the December 17 court order, Baboon Project Kenya, as the applicant, was directed to file and serve submissions within 14 days of service. The case is scheduled for mention on February 5, 2026.
The petition claims that GDC’s operations, particularly drilling and steam venting, have caused excessive noise, vibrations, and environmental degradation, adversely affecting local communities and wildlife, including baboons.
Baboon Project further alleges that both GDC and the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) failed to comply with environmental laws, including conducting proper baseline studies, biodiversity assessments, and maintaining noise levels within legal limits.
The organization also criticized GDC and NEMA for insufficient public participation during the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process, a procedural lapse that previous court rulings have deemed sufficient to invalidate project licenses.
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Baboon Project Kenya is seeking court orders to stop the alleged breaches, compel remedial action, and ensure compliance with environmental laws. The petition requests a declaration that GDC and NEMA violated the constitutional right to a clean and healthy environment, and seeks suspension, revocation, or quashing of the existing EIA license for the Menengai project.
Additionally, the group is asking the court to mandate that GDC immediately cease or strictly regulate all noise-generating activities, including drilling and steam venting, until mitigation measures are in place.
They also want the company to conduct a fresh and comprehensive Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) that includes proper biodiversity studies and ensures meaningful engagement with all affected communities and stakeholders.
