- What is NECC?
The National Environmental Complaints Committee (NECC) was established under Section 31 to 36 of the Environmental Management and Co-ordination Act, 1999. It is an important institution in the assessment of the condition of the environment in Kenya. It plays an important role in the facilitation of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms relating to environmental conflicts. NECC makes recommendations to the Cabinet Secretary and thus contributes significantly to the formulation and development of environmental policy.
2. What is the difference between NEMA and NECC?
National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) is primarily responsible for implementing environmental policies and regulations, while National Environmental Complaints Committee (NECC) serves as an environmental ombudsman, investigating environmental complaints and facilitating access to environmental justice. Both play crucial roles in ensuring the protection and sustainable management of the environment.
3. Where is NECC located?
NECC is situated at the Directorate of Resource Surveys and Remote Sensing (DRSRS) Building, Bellevue area, South C, Popo Road, off Mombasa Road.
4. How do I reach NECC?
Complaints can be lodged through various means:
- Visiting the Committee’s offices.
- Calling the hotline: 0722510510 / 0202405782.
- Sending a letter to P. O. Box 36256-00200, Nairobi.
- Emailing at info@necc.go.ke / necc.environment@gmail.com.
- Filling out an online complaint form on its website, necc.go.ke
5. What can I complain about?
NECC’s core mandate is to investigate environmental complaints against any person or authority, including suspected cases of environmental degradation such as noise pollution, air pollution, water pollution, improper waste management, encroachment of riparian land, deforestation, unsustainable sand harvesting, quarrying and mining activities, unsustainable charcoal burning, and non-compliance with the Environmental Management and Coordination Act (EMCA). Additionally, the committee engages in public interest litigation on behalf of citizens in environmental matters, striving to uphold a clean and healthy environment as a fundamental right for all individuals. NECC encourages written complaints but also accepts oral complaints through third parties. It focuses exclusively on complaints directly related to environmental concerns.
6. What is the cost of NECC’s services?
All services offered by NECC are provided free of charge
7. What is NECC’s process of investigation?
On-site Visits: NECC conducts on-site investigations to verify facts alleged in complaints received and make recommendations. Activities include interviews, observation, photographic documentation, and scientific sampling.
Public Hearings: NECC conducts public hearings for parties to present concerns about a complaint received.
Consultative Meetings: NECC organizes meetings involving stakeholders to gather more information on the complaints received and further recommendations.
8. How long does it take for commencement of investigations after a complaint has been filed at NECC?
NECC records complaints within 24 hours of receipt and promptly commences the investigation process.
9. How long does it take for the dissemination of NECC’s reports after investigations?
Dissemination of its findings and recommendations occurs immediately after the completion of investigations.
10. What are ways of conflict resolution by NECC?
NECC employs alternative justice systems as an alternative to the court process.
11. In what ways does NECC participate in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)?
NECC engages in various CSR activities, including tree planting, provision of beehives, donation of water tanks to communities and schools, distribution of tree nursery tools, provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), sensitization programs, and clean-up exercises.