Students at Bomet University have vowed to continue protests until a controversial dumpsite located near their campus is relocated.
The irate students cited serious health and environmental concerns.
The demonstrations, now in their fourth day, began after the county government moved a garbage disposal site closer to the institution, creating what students described as an “obnoxious environment” that is unfit for learning.
“We cannot study in these conditions,” said one student leader during the protests. “The smell is unbearable, and we are worried about the health risks associated with living so close to a dumpsite.”
The protesting students marched to the office of Bomet Governor Hillary Barchok, demanding immediate intervention and relocation of the waste site. Tensions escalated when a group of student leaders forced entry into the governor’s office in a bid to have their grievances addressed.
“Our message is simple: move the dumpsite, or we will not stop protesting,” another student said. “We deserve a safe and conducive environment for learning.”
Beyond the dumpsite issue, the students also raised concerns over inadequate basic services. They called on the Bomet Water and Sanitation Company (Bomwasco) to ensure a reliable water supply and urged authorities to repair faulty streetlights in the area, which they say pose security risks.
“We are also struggling with water shortages and poor lighting,” a student added. “These are basic needs that the county must address urgently.”
The dispute over the dumpsite is rooted in a long-standing conflict between the Bomet County government and the Prisons Department over land ownership.
The standoff, which has persisted for seven years, has complicated efforts to establish a permanent waste management solution. County officials have reportedly turned to the contested land as a temporary dumping ground.
Bomet County has faced significant waste management challenges for nearly a decade, with the absence of a proper dumpsite, limited space, and what critics describe as poor urban planning exacerbating the situation.
“This is not just about students; it’s a broader issue affecting the entire community,” said a resident. “The county needs a sustainable and well-planned solution to waste management.”
As the protests continue, students insist they will not back down until concrete action is taken.
“This is a developing situation, but we are determined,” a student leader said. “We will keep pushing until our voices are heard.”
By Kimutai Langat
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