Kenya cancer cluster sparks ‘environmental genocide’ claims over oil waste
Summary
Nearly 300 people from villages in northern Kenya are suing BP and the Kenyan government because they believe oil exploration waste left in the 1980s is causing many cancer cases and deaths. Residents say toxic waste dumped during drilling has contaminated the environment, increasing cancers, especially in the digestive system.Key Facts
- The lawsuit involves 298 petitioners from Marsabit County in northern Kenya.
- The group blames oil exploration waste from the 1980s for a cancer cluster that has killed over 500 people.
- Most cancers affect the digestive system, especially the oesophagus and stomach.
- BP’s predecessor, Amoco, drilled in the area between 1986 and 1989 but found no oil and left waste behind.
- Toxic material was dumped in pits, and some locals accidentally used the white powdery substance as seasoning.
- Independent tests found possible contamination of local water with heavy metals.
- Medical staff have raised concerns about rising cancer rates since the early 2000s.
- Petitioners want a full environmental cleanup, safe water access, and compensation for victims.
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