Fish from Lake Nakuru Declared Unfit for Human Consumption

Salim Mvurya, the Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, has issued a warning that fish caught from Lake Nakuru is not safe for human consumption.

During discussions in Embu County on Wednesday with Governor Cecile Mbarire, CS Mvurya highlighted recent tests on fish from Lake Nakuru, revealing elevated levels of arsenic, a chemical compound present in various minerals.

The World Health Organization (WHO) links prolonged exposure to arsenic, whether through water or food consumption, to the development of cancer, skin lesions, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. Immediate symptoms of arsenic poisoning include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

“In the last Cabinet meeting in Sagana, I made a presentation confirming that the fish in Lake Nakuru is not fit for human consumption. We have fish demonstrating a 32 percent level of arsenic metal, which is not suitable for human consumption,” stated the Mining CS.

Acknowledging the issue, Mvurya disclosed that a multi-agency team, involving the departments of fisheries, blue economy, and environment, is investigating the matter.

Further discussions with Governor Mbarire centered on initiatives to boost mining activities in Embu County. Mvurya emphasized that collaborative efforts between the county government, national government officials, and relevant agencies would address the challenge of illegal mining and streamline licensing processes.

“We have agreed with the county government and national government officials based here to work together, especially on the matter of illegal mining, which is rampant in the country,” he explained. “We have also discussed the licensing process as we opened the moratorium last October, and now we are receiving applications from mineral investors. Additionally, we explored the issue of benefits to the county and national governments, as well as the local community.”