Court to Award Dandora Waste Pickers Ksh 25.8 Million After Finding Their Rights Were Violated by Years of Toxic Pollution

The Dandora dumpsite has long been a place of survival for many Nairobi residents. However, for hundreds of waste pickers, it has also been a place of danger. Now, a court ruling has finally given them justice.

On Wednesday, the Environment and Land Court at Milimani announced a major decision. Justice Anne Omollo ruled that 1,032 waste pickers had their constitutional rights violated. She said years of exposure to polluted air caused serious harm. The court blamed Nairobi County and the National Environment Management Authority for failing to act.

The waste pickers filed their case in September 2023. They did so as a group. They said the dumpsite released thick smoke and harmful gases. These fumes came from burning waste and rotting materials. They said this made them sick. They also said it made their work unsafe.

During the hearing, the court reviewed evidence from health experts and environmental officers. The reports showed high levels of pollution at the dumpsite. They also showed that the situation had lasted for many years. Despite this, little had been done to reduce the danger.

Justice Omollo said the county government failed to manage waste properly. She also said NEMA failed to enforce the law. Because of this, people who depend on the dumpsite were left unprotected. The judge said this was wrong. She said public agencies have a duty to keep citizens safe.

The court ruled that several rights had been breached. These include the right to a clean environment. They also include the right to health and dignity. The court added that poor leadership and weak enforcement made things worse.

As a result, the court ordered compensation. Each waste picker will receive Ksh 25,000. The total amount comes to Ksh 25.8 million. Nairobi County must pay the full sum.

The judge said the money cannot erase the suffering. However, it helps to recognise the harm. It also sends a message. Institutions must take environmental safety seriously.

For the waste pickers, the ruling brings relief. Many have worked at the dumpsite for years. They face danger every day. Yet they do so to feed their families. Now, the law has finally acknowledged their pain.

The decision also sets a strong example. It shows that environmental rights matter. It also shows that even the poorest workers can win justice when they stand together.