Why three million children in Kenya are at risk of lead poisoning

About 3 million children in Kenya are exposed to lead poisoning, with research showing most of the affected are having learning challenges in school.

According to a survey by UNICEF, the most affected children are those who stay in areas near factories that pollute the air.

The survey calls for urgent action from authorities to save the numbers that could increase as Kenya industrialises.

The survey says that the volume of lead in the air in urban centres or in areas with factories, is contributing to the increasing cases of pressure related ailments.

Public Health and Professional Standards, Principal Secretary, Mary Muthoni, says the government has taken note of the worrying trend.

Public Health and Professional Standards, Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni. PHOTO/MOH

Muthoni warns that lead emitting institutions are under close scrutiny and face closure.

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