VOI, Kenya – The High Court in Voi has ordered the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) to pay Sh200 million in compensation to residents of Miasenyi and Majengo Mapya villages in Taita Taveta County after a 2016 oil spill contaminated their land, rendering it unusable.
Justice Edward Wambwoto ruled that the spill, caused by a burst pipeline in November 2016, led to extensive environmental damage, loss of agricultural productivity, and serious health issues among residents.
The court found that the crude oil seeped into farms, destroyed crops, polluted air and water sources, and caused respiratory illnesses.
The case was filed by 429 residents, led by Martha Mwakia, Gladys John, Bernard Deghua, Jane Matano, and Cyril Mwavandu.
They argued that the spill permanently damaged their farmland and homes, leaving them without a source of livelihood.
“The oil spill left our soil infertile, and whenever water pipes burst, oil seeps into our drinking water,” the petitioners told the court, adding that many residents unknowingly consumed contaminated water.
They further testified that the area continues to suffer from toxic air pollution, with a persistent pungent smell, particularly at night or when it rains, leading to breathing difficulties and chronic illnesses.
The residents had sought Sh1.93 billion in damages and demanded a long-term environmental restoration plan.
However, the court awarded them Sh200 million, deeming it a reasonable and adequate settlement.
KPC defended itself by listing measures it had taken to address the disaster, including petroleum recovery efforts, ground monitoring, and clean-up operations.
The state corporation also conducted environmental assessments to gauge the extent of the contamination.
Justice Wambwoto acknowledged these efforts, ruling that full-scale land rehabilitation was unnecessary since KPC had already undertaken some restoration work.
Despite the court ruling, some residents feel the compensation falls short of the damage caused.
Many argue that their land remains unproductive, property values have plummeted, and health issues persist.
