NAKURU, Kenya — The Kenya Wildlife Service has warned Kenyans against consuming fish harvested from Lake Nakuru, citing potential contamination and serious public health risks.
In a statement on March 24, KWS Director General Erastus Kanga cautioned that fish from the lake may be unsafe for human consumption, warning that continued harvesting and distribution could expose the public to health dangers.
“A lot of fish is leaving Nakuru and getting distributed across the country. What you are listening to is a national health crisis in this country. People are taking fish that has been declared unfit for human consumption, and it is freely being distributed. We are killing Kenyans,” Kanga said.
The lake, which lies within Lake Nakuru National Park, has experienced ecological stress in recent years linked to pollution, fluctuating water levels, and environmental changes.
Officials said urban runoff, industrial waste, and sewage seepage may have contaminated aquatic life in the water body.
“Because of the nearness of sewage and seepage under, it makes the entire organisms that are there not fit for human consumption,” Kanga stated.
KWS emphasized that fishing and the sale of fish from the lake are illegal and urged members of the public to avoid consuming fish sourced from the area until further scientific assessments are completed.
The warning has sparked concern among residents and traders who depend on fishing activities around the lake for their livelihoods, even as authorities prioritize public health.
KWS said it is working with other government agencies to monitor the situation and enforce regulations aimed at protecting consumers and conserving the fragile ecosystem.
The agency also called for increased public awareness and urged communities to comply with conservation laws while investigations continue.
