GAZETTE NOTICE NO. 17565

PURSUANT to section 59 of the Environmental Management and Co-ordination Act, Cap. 387, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has received an Environmental Impact Assessment Study Report for the above proposed project. The proponent, Eco Witaly Limited, proposes to construct an eco- lodge comprising of; Wooden and canvas guest cabins, a central reception and restaurant area, Solar-powered lighting and heating systems, Nature trails, viewing decks, and educational signage, a sustainable wastewater treatment unit and solid waste segregation facility on a portion of Ontulili forest station, Sirimon Gate, Mt. Kenya ecosystem, Meru County. The following are the anticipated impacts and proposed mitigation measures: Potential impact Proposed Mitigation Measures Soil erosion and site disturbance • Minimize vegetation clearance to the smallest possible footprint. • Excavate only within the designated construction boundaries. • Compact and stabilize loose soils immediately after. • Earthworks. • Provide temporary stormwater channels to direct runoff safely. • Re-vegetate exposed surfaces with indigenous grasses after completion. Dust and air pollution • Sprinkle water on dusty surfaces and access roads regularly. • Cover trucks transporting loose materials such as sand and soil. • Ensure all construction machinery and vehicles are well maintained. Potential impact Proposed Mitigation Measures • Limit speed of vehicles to reduce dust generation. Noise and vibration pollution • Restrict noisy works to daytime hours (8.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m.). • Use low-noise machinery and fit exhaust mufflers. • Sprinkle water on dusty surfaces regularly. • Maintain buffer vegetation to absorb noise and dust. • Inform local leaders before undertaking heavy works. Solid waste generation • Segregate solid waste at source into recyclable, reusable, and general waste. • Provide bins at strategic collection points. • Engage licensed NEMA waste handlers for offsite disposal. • Promote reuse of inert materials like stones and timber offcuts. • Maintain proper waste transfer records. Occupational health and safety hazards • Provide workers with appropriate PPE (helmets, boots, gloves, masks). • Conduct safety induction and toolbox meetings daily. • Install warning signage and restrict access to hazardous areas. • Keep first aid kits and trained personnel onsite. • Enforce safety supervision at all times. Water pollution and spill risks • Construct oil-water interceptors at vehicle washing and maintenance zones. • Store fuel and lubricants in bunded areas. • Prohibit direct discharge of wastewater into natural drains. • Train workers on spill prevention and response. • Regularly inspect and maintain equipment to prevent leaks. Impacts on flora and fauna • Avoid unnecessary tree felling within the forest buffer. • Restrict construction works to the approved footprint. • Relocate or protect rare plant species identified onsite. • Sensitize workers on wildlife protection and anti-poaching laws. • Maintain waste discipline to avoid attracting wildlife. Positive social and economic impacts • Prioritize employment of local residents during construction. • Ensure gender inclusivity and fair wages. • Engage local suppliers for materials where possible. • Maintain a grievance redress system for community concerns. 8448 8448 Potential impact Proposed Mitigation Measures Cultural and heritage resource disturbance • Halt works immediately if archaeological artefacts are encountered. • Notify the National Museums of Kenya (NMK) for expert evaluation. • Secure the discovery site pending guidance. • Conduct cultural sensitivity briefings for workers. Solid and liquid waste generation • Maintain segregation bins for organic, recyclable, and hazardous waste. • Contract licensed NEMA waste handlers for proper collection and disposal • Maintain functional septic tanks and soak pits. • Monitor and maintain oil interceptors. • Conduct periodic staff training on waste handling. Increased water demand and potential overuse • Install water-saving fixtures (dual flush, aerated taps). • Harvest rainwater and recycle grey water. • Monitor water consumption monthly. • Educate staff and guests on water conservation. • Engage Naivasha Water Co. for routine supply • monitoring Energy demand and carbon footprint • Use solar energy for lighting and water heating. • Maintain energy-efficient appliances. • Monitor energy use and carbon footprint quarterly. • Encourage guest participation in energy saving campaigns. Oil leaks and spills from kitchen or maintenance areas • Use spill containment trays under fuel/oil containers. • Maintain oil interceptors and clean them regularly. • Store oils and lubricants in designated, lined areas. • Train staff on emergency spill response and containment. Fire risks and emergency preparedness • Maintain fire extinguishers and hydrants; service every 6 months. • Conduct fire drills quarterly. • Ensure fire exits are well marked and accessible. • Train staff in firefighting and evacuation procedures. The full report of the proposed project is available for inspection during working hours at: (a) Principal Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Foresty, NHIF Building, 12th Floor, Ragati Road, Upper Hill, Upper Hill, P.O. Box 30126–00200, Nairobi. (b) Director-General, NEMA, Popo Road, off Mombasa Road, P.O. Box 67839–00200, Nairobi. (c) County Director of Environment, Meru County. A copy of the EIA report can be downloaded at www.nema.go.ke The National Environmental Management Authority, invites members of the public to submit oral or written comments within thirty (30) days from the date of this publication to the Director- General, NEMA to assist the Authority in the decision making process for this project. Kindly quote ref. No. NEMA/ENVIS/SR/00247 Comments can also be e-mailed to dgnema@nema.go.ke MAMO B. MAMO, MR/7862213 Director-General.