MOMBASA County—Jan 19, 2026—The Mombasa County Government has launched a crackdown on residents accused of illegally connecting sewer lines in Old Town, just days after activists and locals demanded urgent action over the area’s persistent sewage crisis.
Environment and Water, County Executive Committee Member (CECM), Kibibi Abdallah Khamis, led an inspection and enforcement exercise in the historic neighbourhood, warning that residents must take responsibility for protecting the environment instead of placing blame solely on the county administration.
Speaking during the operation, Kibibi said illegal sewer connections had worsened pollution, blocked drainage systems and contributed to frequent sewage overflows in Old Town, an area that has for years struggled with ageing infrastructure and poor waste management.
She cautioned that the county would not hesitate to take firm legal action against individuals found flouting environmental and public health laws, adding that sustained enforcement would be carried out to deter future violations.
“We all have a role to play in ensuring a clean and safe environment. Residents must comply with the law and stop illegal connections that endanger public health,” Kibibi said.
Her remarks came against the backdrop of renewed pressure from environmental activists and residents who recently accused the county government of failing to resolve chronic sewer blockages that often leave raw sewage flowing through streets and homes, particularly during high tides and heavy rains.
Mombasa Water Supply and Sanitation Company (MOWASCO) acting Managing Director Habiba Ali said the company, working with sector stakeholders, would continue the enforcement operations on a daily basis to address the problem.
Ali noted that illegal connections place additional strain on an already overstretched sewer system, complicating efforts to rehabilitate infrastructure in densely populated areas such as Old Town.
Mombasa’s sewerage challenges have persisted for decades, with sections of the old network frequently overwhelmed, prompting repeated complaints from residents, health experts and conservation groups concerned about environmental pollution and disease outbreaks.
County officials say enforcement, combined with infrastructure upgrades and public awareness, is key to achieving a lasting solution.
