Have you ever wondered where fresh "sukuma wiki" (kales) sold in Machakos County comes from? well, your guess could be way far from the truth.
Most of the vegetables consumed locally in Athi River and other parts of the county are from irrigated fields along banks of adversely polluted River Athi.
According to independent investigations conducted by this writer for the last two weeks, nearly 80 percent of vegetables including spinach and kales consumed by the locals are cultivated along Athi and Mto Wa Mawe rivers.
"Local farmers with lack of better understanding or for some deliberation use this water to earn a living," said resident Eric Kitavi.
Kitavi blamed the situation on Mavoko Water and Sewerage Company's (MAVWASCO) alleged failure to ensure water treatment is executed in the sub-county.
A research done by the Journal of Industrial Pollution Control in India to assess crops irrigated in such water is overwhelming.
The study found out that metal elements in water and food chain were higher than safer limits.
High concentration of Cadmium (Cd), Lead( Pb) and Zinc (Zn) were found in Spinach, Coriander, green Chillies, and Para grass.
These traces of metals have far-reaching health risks to humans.
"We come here daily to collect fresh produce for our consumers," said Margaret Mweva.
Mweva operates a small vegetables' "kiosk" at Sokoni estate in Athi River."People need to take proper nutritional advice.
Regular screening is also vital to assess the elements' effects," said nutritional advisor David Kinyua.
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