The Nakuru County government has issued a stern warning to the public regarding the consumption of fish from Lake Nakuru due to high levels of pesticide pollution. Livestock and Fisheries Chief Officer Michael Cheruiyot revealed that recent tests have shown dangerous levels of organochlorine pesticides in both the water and fish from the lake, rendering the fish toxic and unsuitable for human consumption.
Cheruiyot also highlighted the presence of 16 pesticides and heavy metals such as lead and mercury in the fish, posing a significant health risk to residents of Nakuru and Nairobi who have been consuming the contaminated fish.
Experts conducted tests on 30 fish and water samples from Lake Nakuru in three different institutions, all yielding similar results. Cheruiyot emphasized the urgency of the situation, as the contaminated fish is making its way to Nairobi, where unsuspecting consumers are putting themselves at risk.
The findings of the research conducted in 2022 have raised concerns about the safety of fish from Lake Nakuru, prompting the government to issue a public health warning. It is crucial for residents to heed this warning and refrain from consuming fish from the contaminated lake to avoid potential health hazards.
As the situation unfolds, it is imperative for authorities to take swift action to address the pollution in Lake Nakuru and ensure the safety of both the environment and the public. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
By SIMON NDONGA
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