Lang’ata Cemetery could soon be closed following Ministry of Health’s recommendation.

A taskforce appointed by the Ministry to assess public health risks posed by the famous burial site declared it full making it a health and safety hazard towards the public.

According to the Taskforce, the graveyard which is 67 years old with over 57,000 bodies buried in it is currently overwhelmed and the ongoing act of burying bodies on top of others need to stop.

“We want to safeguard the public health and promote a healthier and safer society.” Health Principal Secretary (PS) Mary Muthoni stated

In trying to salvage the Cemetery and see its continued operation, Muthoni noted the need to  reclaim a five-acre plot adjacent to the cemetery believed to have been grabbed. Additionally, she recommends that the County Government be forced to obtain all the necessary documents pertaining to ownership of the Cemetery’s land.

“Nairobi City County should reclaim grabbed land adjacent to it for expansion purposes. The county should be compelled by the National Assembly to obtain necessary ownership of the said land.”

Prior to notable solutions being found, PS Muthoni further urged the County to adhere to all requirements governing burials to avoid adverse effects to the members of the public.

“The City County should ensure all burials taking place comply with Public Health legal requirement governing such acts to avoid infectious disease spread, social stigma and pollution of environment,”Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni concluded

Currently, the cemetery which was started 58 years ago is estimated to be having around 30 bodies per week despite the fact that it has surpassed its capacity.

Since inception in 1958, the site has seen both renowned personalities and common citizens being buried in it and should it be closed, families of deceased individuals will have to seek alternative burial sites in neighbouring counties.