Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Celly, Lusaka, Zambia — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 16:02:43 GMT

At least get it right - It is MATATU. Do some research and you may learn as to why it is MATATU, then you may never forget how it is spelt, M A T A T U , from the swahili word for three. Alternatively, you can just call it a MATHREE.

I agree with on the pollution and the hundreds of cars that are truly not roadworthy and make a trip along some Nairobi roads just unbearable.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Tim Croskey, St. Louis, Missouri — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 16:11:29 GMT

I have gone to Kenya four times since 1996 having been there last this January. While the population has almost doubled in that time, by some accounts, the Kibaki government has done much to clean up Nairobi. No longer are there burning trash fires. The street people and beggars have disappered. A new bus line has added convenience to city travel and the Matatus are more strictly controlled for safety than ever. People their love public transport and use it extensively. It is still a gritty city in places but after the short rainy season in December the air is delightfully clear. Then, a view from Uhuru Park lets the visitor see the gem that Nairobi is. For an all out assualt on your lungs try Mexico City for a week.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

C. Hensyl, Fernandina Beach, Florida — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 16:31:42 GMT

Every country has the right to charge whatever they want to view its treasures. I assume that the charge is just for foreigners which is fine with me. I find it a bit oximoronic that the M. Fletcher is writing about excessive levels of pollution and he does't take into consideration the pollution that he caused flying into Kenya, or did he just walk there?

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Meghan, Denver — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 16:41:55 GMT

After being in Nairobi for July this pass summer, I don't know if I've recovered from the pollution, especially spending time near the dump in Dandora. I really hope that the new president will take a serious look at both issues.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Bettie Jean Tripp, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 16:49:53 GMT

I spent some time in Xi'an, China. The pollution and just plain dirt in the air dries up your hair and skin and mouth and nose and eyes. I have been away for 2 and 1/2 months and just now begin to feel normal and enjoy life again. Food tastes good again.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Patty Roscoe Branford CT — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 17:09:31 GMT

It should be hideously expensive to view the wild remnants of Kenya squandered by it's people and government. $500 an hour is a fair price to catch a glimpse of the gorilla family members who managed to survive the torture and murder their kin did not. Get a grip, some people will pay $80,000 for a car.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Henrik Voskanian, Glendale, California — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 17:23:09 GMT

With the US bieng so much more advanced then Kenya, Our pollution in some US cities compared to Kanya is worest. Remember Kenya is a 3rd world country. We should talk about our nations smog problem and solving it before moving on to other poor nations. This country has the chance to become the cleanest invironment in the world. With so many national parks and forest it should be easier for us to reach that point.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

SJ, Orlando Florida — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 17:24:10 GMT

...Try New York City in the Summer...

We moved to the US from Kenya and the first words my father said when we stepped out of JFK were "If this is America, we're not going to be staying here." I'm glad we discovered that the rest of the US is not as vile as NY & NJ (where we spent our first couple of months)

BTW, it's MATATUS.

On a separate note: Disney charges about $70 per day plus $10 for parking. Xel-Ha/Xpu-Ha in Mexico charge about $90 per day. I'd lay off the Africans until I had affairs in our own backyard sorted. Thank you.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Jenny, Washington DC — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 17:25:49 GMT

I can't comprehend the complaining about the proposed incease in the price KWS wants to charge for tourists to enter the parks. Kenya is a developing country. Kenya earns a large share of their GDP from wildlife tourism so if they have found a way to bring in more money why not. I would have no problem paying more as long as the extra money is going towards the poor areas that tend to live around the parks and have to deal with the wildlife.
And Kenya only charges $3.00 or $1.50 for Kenyans because they are trying to encourage Kenyans to visit the parks which they don't tend to do. Plus keep in mind Kenya is a developing country so $3.00 is a lot of money to Kenyans.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Mike Smith, Atlanta — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 17:29:48 GMT

I just recently concluded a visit to Nairobi and disagree whole heartedly with your pollution stance. It seems to me that you were focused on getting a story to report. Nairobi is much cleaner today than it has ever been. Matatus and private vehicles are ticketed for the things you have written about. While I must agree that Nairobi has a long way to go to be the clean city that we would all love to see, we must acknowledge the enourmous difference we see today. Rome was not built in a day, and neither will Nairobi. It takes time to implement policies and police them. I challenge you to take your surgical face mask off and visit the city one more time. Surely the Kenyans that brave it all day everyday would all be dead at birth if it was as bad as you allude to. Finally, I agree Tim Croskey- I'd love to see what breathing mechanism you would bring with you to Mexico.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Alex, Boston — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 17:46:27 GMT

Do you have any idea how much it costs to study as an international (Kenyan) student at Boston University? Or as an out of state student in American Universities. I can't believe your bias when it comes to this issue- As a matter of principle, I would love to see Kenyans visit the parks free and have everyone else pay $500 per hour. Its only fair to the Kenyan economy.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

RLO, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 17:58:44 GMT

First, the pollution is a problem no matter where you go. So stop picking on the Kenyans! They are doing a fantastic job at cleaning up Nairobi. I've been to the city on-and-off throughout my life and have witnessed major changes for the better. I'm impressed.

Secondly, my country of South Africa also charges foreign visitors significantly more than they charge foreign visitors. One reason behind this ideology is to make it as inexpensive as possible for all South Africans of any social-economic standing to access the park and enjoy it. Secondly, in my experiance its usually the amount of traffic caused by foreigners which damages the parks infrastructure.

You use it, you pay for it. Pure and simple.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Aika G, Dallas,TX — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 18:22:18 GMT

A whole city stinks?? while Nairobi may not be perfect,it is not the stinky,completely polluted dump that you are trying to potray.In its fight against pollution, Kenya has come along way.with the government imposing strict fines on environmentally unsafe cars and banning of plastic bags it is moving in the right direction, it will however take time.Traffic and pollution are bad in Nairobi just as it is in LA, New York and New Jersey.Certain areas in Nairobi may infact be slightly better.Mr Fletcher is the pot calling the kettle black..... and polluted.
on the issue of tourism i'll compare it to college education in the states.any foreign student pays three times as much in tuition as an american.rightfully so because americans should have cheaper access to education right? well kenyans should have cheaper access to their beautifull and unique wildlife.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Mike O — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 18:32:20 GMT

Kampala is just as bad, if not worse.
Safaris must be nice; however, I've been in Uganda on two successive trips and never visited a single tourist spot. Spent the time doing things like replacing sewage pipes, rebuilding pigpens and screening windows at orphanges. Greatest vacations ever, cheaper than a safari and certainly more useful to the real world.

Try adding to the rest of the world, rather than being a traveler just viewing it.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Mombasa — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 18:46:26 GMT

I am in Mombasa I sleep in ozone, breath air from the ocean filltered by neem trees and am healthy like no body else. I know the problem our roads cannot accomodate vehicles our air cannot accept any poluted air, Roads are small and vehicles are imported every day very soon we will have to stop importing them

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Chris, Newark, NJ — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 18:55:23 GMT

Please don't hold back. Speak your mind!!!!!!!!!!!
Report at your own rik!!!!!!!!!!!!:)

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

cdugga — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 18:56:33 GMT

It is funny how so many problems are not addressed due to justifying their existence because the same problems are worse elswhere. That is always the final arguement of those who disagree with the expense of fixing something or those who wish to retain the status quo. Like if you don't like something in America then you should move someplace else. I will not be going to Kenya, and I expect that the worship of the automobile that plaques this country will doom most 3rd world countries environment. Just ask any american to choose between a car and a park full of trees. Ask any kenyan to choose between the wildlife and a car. The environment in all countries may be a lost cause since a clean environment is percieved as requiring expense and sacrafice. That perception is correct.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

RBG, Daytona Beach, Florida — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 18:59:35 GMT

I visited Nairobi in August and the pollution is horrible.

1. A large number of cars are in disrepair causing pollution.
2. Deisels are prevalent and pollute more than gasoline vehicles.
3. I suspect there is no restriction on lead in the gasoline. This is a guess because I did not actually see anything in writing relating to it.
4. The city is overwhelmed by the shear number of vehicles. I was surprised to see the large number of private cars in what we describe as a third world country.
5. The fees charged for the national parks are more than reasonable. If I'm travelling from the US to Kenya to see their wildlife, doubling the park price is, in actuality, a relatively small portion of my overall cost of the vacation. These parks are magnificent and if the cost goes up they will still fill them and that's great. Use the ecotourism dollars to improve the country. It's smart management of the resources.
6. I'm going back next year to see the Silverback Gorillas of Rwanda. I'll pay the fees. These are unique, endangered animals. The managers have decided to cater to small numbers of people with the money to pay the fees. That's better for them than having to deal with 10 times the people at one tenth the price. There's definitely less impact on the gorillas and on their environment.
Better control of motor vehicles within Nairobi would help tremendously but in actuality, the rest of the country is virtually pollution-free. They should try to clean up the air in Nairobi and, I suspect it wouldn't be too hard if draconean measures were implemented but we have to remember they are struggling to just get by. Anything that increases the burden they have to endure isn't good for them right now.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

RD, Dallas TX — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 19:27:01 GMT

I have had the opportunity to visit Nairobi on more than one occasion and I have never experienced the level of pollution you speak about. Get passed that and see what the city really has to offer.
Why shouldn't they raise prices to view their national parks? Frankly, the wildlife you get to see there in its natural habitat is priceless compared to anything you could see here. It is well worth every penny.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Ssembonge — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 19:27:47 GMT

Dusty yes. But way less poluted than the average American metropolis. May be he couldn't tell the difference between dust, smoke, smog and fog. So much for American education, or is it his English?

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Pat — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 19:29:43 GMT

It costs more for out of state college students and international students because the states are not picking up 3/4 of the tuition that they do for in-state students. This is not biased against international and out-of-state students, rather it's subsidizing those students from that state whose parents have been paying taxes that bankroll the universities.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Anthony ,Anaheim ,CA — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 19:55:31 GMT

I wish they would charge $500.00 a day, just like when the international student are being charged for one unit in school for $140.00 while some of us are being encouraged to go to school for free
so think before you write and i would reccomend you do your research

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Smith Allen, Miami, Florida — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 19:58:14 GMT

Interesting comments! First of all before I go on I've just checked the website http://www.kenyanview.com. The pictures of Nairobi are breathtaking, http://www.kenyanview.com/scenaries.html ! It is definitely a wonderful place to visit.

Now, I agree that the KWS has the right to charge whatever it pleases since when you go to Kenya to watch the wildlife you should be prepared to pay for it. Is $100 really too much for watching nature's pristine creation? Instead of pouring vitriol against a fledging economy, we should try to provide the solutions to help Kenya rise to upper levels of economic prosperity.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Anthony ,Anaheim ,CA — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 19:59:34 GMT

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Concerned, Atlanta — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 20:07:01 GMT

Being a Kenyan citizen living in the U.S i am totally appalled by this article. Secondly 3rd world country is not politically correct!!!! Get it right, developing country. Having lived in Atlanta for the past 4.5 yrs now i would sya the air quality is horrible. I never had breathing issues until i came here, mind you i lived in Kenya for 20yrs of my life.... As for charging tourists to see our animals, i agree totally... How else would they make their revenue? We pay over $10,000 a semester to go to school here as international students so you do the math.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Jason Smith, Oneonta, NY — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 20:10:11 GMT

This article is for rich people, ordinary people cannot afford this anyway...so at least state the article appropriately, and don't act like you are concerned about the environment and then tell people to book soon, you probably advise people to hurry and view the Arctic before ALL the glaciers melt too, since this is really a tourist destination for small-minded people, as well....accelerating pollution and global warming just as they are going to see the devastation they are causing...it is ridiculous....

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Kate, Hartford, CT — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 20:20:09 GMT

I was in Kenya during the time of the initial matatu crackdown in early 2004. For weeks, public transportation in most of the country was nonexistant, which in Kenya is a real catastrophe, since it's how everyone gets around. They "only" took mats off the road who offended the above rules about speed governors, overcrowding, lack of seatbelts, and the like. If they had at the same time taken out air quality standard-offending vehicles, the country would have ground to a halt and there would have been riots in the streets. Give the country some time. And- if you can afford an $1800 plane ticket to Nairobi, you can afford a slightly more expensive ticket into the game parks. Think about how much the average Kenyan makes in a year and compare it to your salary, and suck it up- the cost of food and lodgings while in country are paltry compared to prices in the US.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Anna H, Chicago IL — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 20:22:54 GMT

What struck me the most about the pollution in East Africa this summer was the lack of landfills. The amount of plastic waste in the streets was very concerning. In Lamu, Kenya the donkeys and monkeys were often chewing on plastic bottles and bags! Until they can find a way to recycle or control the amount of waste generated, plastic bags should be outlawed in all East African countries.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Asha C, Toronto Canada — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 20:23:59 GMT

I recently visited Kenya after 6 and a half years of being away & i must totally disagree with Mr Fletcher. Nairobi is not perfect but the city is much cleaner compared to what it was afew years ago; matatus which were a niusance in the past have been regulated by the government & have to follow strict traffic codes and rules, and are constantly ticketed when they break traffic rules. City Council workers walk the streets to ensure that it remains clean & people are even ticketed if they are caught littering. Both cars & matatus must stop and park in designated areas or else they will be ticketed. The city as a whole has gotten safer and gone are the days when you were too scared to walk in the city with an expensive watch or a cellphone - police are clearly visible and beggers have been removed from the streets making a walk down a Nairobi street safe & enjoyable. I have no idea which Nairobi Mr Fletcher visited - but it certainly isnt the Nairobi in Kenya. Pollution is a constant problem in may US cities, how about Mr Fletcher takes a walk down the ghettos of Chicago and other US city ghettos.
May i mention that $40 a day for a safari or even $100 a day is not much compared to what places like SeaWorld or DisneyLand charge - Mr Fletcher please take into consideration that a day pass to Disney's California CityPass costs $235 per person!
As a Kenyan, it greatly offends me when someone taints the good name of our country. Mr Fletcher please get your facts straight!

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Katfish Russell — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 20:33:01 GMT

" $500 an hour is a fair price to catch a glimpse of the gorilla family members who managed to survive the torture and murder their kin did not."

The above 'might' be a valid point if gorillas lived in Kenya - they do NOT...............

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Leonard Reed — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 20:33:32 GMT

WHere are the people with the guts to talk about
the actual cause of smog worldwide?
Excess humans uncontrolled human breeding causes
too many cars and taxis, not governments.
Let's all grow up
overpopulation is the only subject which should be
discussed here, except by religious idiots who think
god is doing a good job of cleaning up the planet.
.....Let's all grow up and face the ugly truth and
stop families who overbreed everywhere.
China has tried to do this but has failed.
Leonard in Colorado

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

tybe caribou maine — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 20:36:56 GMT

Its not like the US is any cleaner with your smog levels reaching cataclysmic levels and take a shower maybe it was your ass that was smelling like suicide

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Tim, Garbage, NJ — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 20:45:18 GMT

I wonder who will buy the last gallon of gas or will we all be dead from polution before it ever runs out?

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Margaret, London, UK — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 21:18:44 GMT

I was in Nairobi last week for the first time and completely disagree with Martin Fletcher's rant. On the contrary, the streets were very clean, far less trash and 'stink' than in New York City. There was a little haze in the very early morning but every day had clear skies, far less haze than in LA. Yes, it was dusty...but give me a break, it's the dry season! I am not sure what Martin's point was in mentioning the difference between the increase in park rates for visitors and the current rates for Kenyan residents. I would be frightened to think that he was implying that the rates were unfair for visitors considering that for the average Kenyan to travel to and and stay within the park would be a prohibitive expense. I also went on Safari in the Masai Mara and feel that paying $100 per day to conserve that remarkable environment is completely worth it.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Lisa McNeil,Alpharetta,Georgia — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 21:25:32 GMT

Dear Mr.Fletcher, I am sorry you were having such a hard time with all the coughing and sneezing you were doing. It does sound like the air pollution from all the fumes needs to be addressed asap. They are responding to the taxi drivers causing the most pollution, but more will have to be done. Now with regards to the prices for the Kenyan Wildlife Service, I suppose if people are paying that price I hope it helps their economy. Seeing a broadway show in New York is highly expensive and so are many other things. Everything costs money and prices always seem to rise. Hope you are feeling better Mr.Fletcher. Peace to all!

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Martin, Texas — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 21:35:18 GMT

Let's please be honest about this. Downtown Nairobi is very polluted and is tough to get used to even after several weeks if you are a Westerner. Even the Kenyans don't jog down there. And yes, there are still plenty of street people and beggars, and even trash burning - just go to the downtown Matatu station/area. You'll see beggars sleeping in a mound of trash that's on fire, and if you're a Mzungu, 30 people will crowd in around your vehicle hoping you'll spend a few cents on their trinkets. Improving? Maybe. But still no functioning infrastructure, dirty, and dangerous on the roads. You might make it to where you are hoping to go, or your cab/Matatu/bus could break down (all three happened to me). Love the people in Kenya, though, and they deserve an infrastructure that works.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

S&M Plano, Texas — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 21:57:49 GMT

I feel really sorry that the world has to suffer from all the pollution in it. We should really try to cut down on pollution and build more trees. Maybe one day, we can figure out how to completely save the world of pollution and rebuild the ozone.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

simon, Houston, TX — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 22:46:35 GMT

The writer is obviously ignorant. Nairobi is not what you deem it to be. Saying that you had to wear a face mask is a lie, come one.. 2 million tourists have visited in 2007 and they will keep on coming no matter what lies you put out..

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Thomas McKeanly, Paramus, NJ — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 22:50:51 GMT

I think some journalists write some stories just to create an arguement out of it. Mr. Fletcher so exaggerated his story that if I had wanted to believe him, I wouldn't. One reason I wonder is; haven't I seen somewhere that there is a United Nations Environmental Program (UNEP) offices in Nairobi? Why would they choose a gabage dump for a place to build their offices?
A close friend of mine who has been to Nairobi a few times has spoken of it with such nostalgia I he convinced me it is worth visiting. He has told me how modern Nairobi is and how major international conferences are held there. I have also heard of the good hotels there including the Hilton and the Holiday Inn. I don't believe what Mr. Fletcher is saying because I the story I heard from my friend sounded more realistic than Mr.Fletcher's.
About the park charges, I would pay the amount charged if I wanted to visit the parks, otherwise, if I can't afford it then I would stay away. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but it is bad when someone tries to use their opinion to misinform others and cause them to believe things that are not true. Maybe journalism isn't so noble after all.
I remember reading an equally fictitious story about a back breaking drive to a park. I think a more diplomatic language might be more convincing, otherwise the stories sound just like fiction and I believe they are fiction.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Jayne Ferguson, Los Angeles, CA — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 23:51:58 GMT

Martin, you had a tough time in Africa. I had to read your blogs really carefully to see anything positive, or even an observation versus a criticism about Africa. I think you do need to get on Safari, and fast. Or, don't go to countries that can't possibly meet your expectations. Some of us American's check our expectations at the plane door and learn from the experience.
And BEIJING will top any of the world's cities for pollution, AND THEY DON'T CARE!

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Karl Bratcher, Florence, Oregon — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 23:54:50 GMT

It would be great if our congress and President Bush had time to work on such problems instead of being so busy getting people killed.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

A.G. by the ocean, Canada — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 00:18:43 GMT

Hello Martin,

Kind greetings from the ocean side of Canada. Thank you kindly for sharing your experience – it was like going on a little trip to Kenya – I loved it. My dear friends are missionaries in Kenya – but they are in the outlying areas. I love hearing from my friends all over the world – it brings such sunshine into my tiny little corner of the world. So I thank you Martin.

Blogging is all new to me, I only just discovered it in August . Man alive! I had no idea people could be so insulting and rude. I feel bad for you Martin. Everyone has their own opinion after visiting an area. You did right in expressing your honest feelings. I thank you as I’m so glad that you did as it helped me to put myself there too. It sounds horrible there – it must be even worse for the poor people living there. They must feel so ill with so much pollution. How sad. Maybe your words will help others to realize the difficulties of the people living there. It would be wonderful if more trees could be planted. Trees are the "lungs" of any city. Only God could have come up with such a lovely way to keep our air clean and fresh.

The only “safari” I have been on is in Disney World Florida…I bet that makes you groan and roll your eyes….yes indeed….I feel so cheated! Africa must change your entire outlook on life – I know for my friends it has. What a dream to go there. I really enjoyed reading your words Martin, thank you so much. Please take care and stay safe.

In appreciation, A.G. by the seaside in Canada

Life is beautiful.... “…..Stand still and show yourself attentive to the wonderful works of God.”
Job 37:14

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Wambui — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 01:49:33 GMT

Martin, I am not sure which Nairobi you visited: please open attached URL of the beautiful city of Nairobi -

http://www.nairaland.com/nigeria/topic-51356.0.html

It totally contradicts your rude/arrogant statement - "If you come to Nairobi, bring a surgical mask. It stinks". Get your story right!

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Elizabeth Mulongo — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 03:46:13 GMT

I must say that i do not approve of the pollution caused by our vrhicles in kenya and comparing cities does not help. I however think that many of our cities have one degree of pollution or another that visitors might find hard to comprehend. for example, I lived in a European city where it is not pollution through smoke but it was the the dogs littering the city streets with their waste.
you really had to think twice before walking in the capital city of one of the richests nations in Europe. I wonder what kind of shoes
MR. fletcher will advice us to wear before we go to Europe where some people allow dogs to do it anywhere. or should we 'advice them to stop worshipping dogs because dog shit is dooming the environment?'
and by the way I work in mongolia and still pay more money to travel using local airlines than a Mongolian.
I belief kenya is trying their best. Be careful when you come to kenya again though. My Kenyan friend was arrested for stepping on the grass and another one was fined for dropping a matatu ticket acidentally on the pavements.we need the money to keep the city clean.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Lampson, Phoenix,, AZ — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 04:01:08 GMT

I've got an idea- why don't all of you park your hypocritical butts in your home, save the earth of your gas/co2 emissions to and from the airport, taxis around the destination cities, not to mention the gas/co2 from the flight, so that maybe the animals you are going to see will have a fighting chance in a global environment that isn't experiencing 10,000 years worth of climate change in 50 years! I'm also pretty sure that while you may like to see the animals- they have absolutely NO interest in seeing YOU in their native habitat destroying it! Instead why don't you take all that money that you would have spent on the flight, taxis & hotels and send it to the the conservation groups who are trying to save these animals the best they can. What a noble idea?! And just think that some of these creatures might still be around for your children- and even better yet- your children's children! Really, reading all you smug self centered jerks trying to preach holier than thou while being the number one parasites of this planet makes me want to puke!!! Get some common sense and a life...

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Wendy, Penn Yan, New York — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 04:09:34 GMT

If you think Nairobi stinks, just check out Mexico city, New York City or Denver. Anywhere there are a lot of people driving lots of cars, you will have environmental problems. Contrary to what Exxon believes, humans are largely responsible for global warming and pollution. If we in our own country are largely unwilling to clean up our own cities, how can a third world country? As for the charging to view wildlife? Where exactly does that money go? Certainly not at protecting the wildlife and Gorillas that bring in the tourists in the first place. They are being used for target practice by native factions.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Erastus Nderitu Mwangi — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 04:26:35 GMT

If you are ever in Nairobi try visiting the City park or the Arboretum this will clear you lungs like nobody bizness they are hardly more than 3kms form the city centre.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

alexandria va — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 04:57:51 GMT

I was in kenya they have the lowest human rights record, sometimes it makes you wonder,if they are human? or species. let alone pollution

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

John Coelho — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 05:30:10 GMT

There is no hope for Kenya until they make substantial progress getting their birth rates down. planting trees is fine but the rapidly increasing population is undermining the heroic attempts to lower pollution. More people, more cars, more factories, more stress on land.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

LAA, Atlanta, Georgia — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 06:31:39 GMT

For a people that have many problems to solve and not enough to finance them, I think Kenya is doing a good job. Life is about making choices, some of which might not otherwise be desired. As many vehicles as Kenyans have on the roads, I think you must admit that most are for public transportation, would you prefer more private vehicles? I think the worst problem is that we did not anticipate the growth in Nairobi. I think the worst cause of the polution is vehicles stuck in too many traffic jams. As for the park fees, a lot of Kenyans are in need of farming and grazing land that has been taken up by the parks. It is fair that the sacrife should be worthwile. I just came back in July and Kenya is still a steal. Think other savings such as Hotel rates, and most of the best tourist spots are outside Nairobi where there little or no polution.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Tiny Ghataura — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 07:20:36 GMT

Kenya in general is one of the most beautiful places in the world! And I mean that! I am the third generation of Indian Immigrants here (since 1898!!)and while in the past there was a major move by immigrants to other parts of the western world, many many youngsters who graduate abroad are coming back! This is after having lived in UK, USA, Canada, Australia etc for years on end! Kenya is a very young country and like any developing nation it has it's problems. The lifestyle here though far out-weighs the problems!! Cheerio to Kenya and Nairobi!!

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Asif Nawaz, Karachi, Pakistan — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 08:56:39 GMT

Try Karachi, Pakistan. You'll think Nairobi is mighty clean.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

ER, Troy, NY — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 10:00:44 GMT

A clean environment? Thats like saying the earth is clean. This planet is and always has been a chemical soup. Historicaly that fact has brought about new life while extinguishing old. Thats how nature works. Humans will be victims of their own excesses soon enough however the planet will survive unchanged in the long run. It is simply a pity that masses will die either fighting for habitable space or from disease and genetic mutation. In any case it is a savage world and humans have not benefitted from their gift of reason except to manipulate eachother for wealth. The polution is simply a byproduct of the race to become all powerful.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

EW,Monrovia,Liberia — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 11:12:17 GMT

Give credit where it is due. Nairobi has improved quite a lot lately and I am shocked that a foreigner who does not live there to see the changes can comment on its environment. I don't think you're much travelled, otherwise you'd have visited places which are worse than Nairobi. If you were just looking for a story to write, this is not the way to do it. If I were you, I would stop visiting developing countries because you will die soon from polution! Do you know where the ozone layer is mostly destroyed from polution? Not in Nairobi but in developed countries. Finally, Kenya has a right to charge whatever fees they feel like for their services. Take it or leave it.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Blossom — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 11:29:11 GMT

The whole piece was written for what reason, from start to finish it was pretty muh a dish, there are alot of countries and cities with pollution, or other issues, that make it difficult to live or visit, developing countries have these problems,,,look at london back in the industrial revolution,,,,look at LA 10 yers ago, and look at the efforts to change today... as for how much a safari costs? If you can afford to go to africa you can help support the local economy, I am originally from Key West, and If you visit there you will pay
more for alot of things then me, if I have to pay at all for things like a coffee or internet time, or admissions to certian places. this is totally normal..
and hillarious that in some places in KW its even written out...tourists pay more...LOL

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Maitei Nthunguri, Nairobi, Kenya — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 13:49:23 GMT

Mr. Fletcher, I am Kenyan and would like to thank you for complimenting us on our beautiful City Nairobi. I also thank the person that wrote a scathing racist article against Africans and spilt a whole lot of vitriol about them. Lots of thanks to you all. You have done a great job at expressing yourself. Keep it up.
Yes I am Kenyan. I am proud to be Kenyan. I will not insult you back. We have our own rights to live our lives as we please. None has a right to impose their lifestyles on others. If and when we decide to live differently we will do it in our own way. If you keep coming to our polluted city, keep bringing your gas mask and you will be fine.
Our wildlife is our heritage. We will protect it and conserve it. Let us do what we will with the money we collect. It is no longer yours once you have paid it out. You will not have a say in how we use it.
Those who have tried to destroy our wildlife by pushing to be allowed to do game hunting in our country are enemies trying to deplete the beautiful environment that has been so far so well conserved. We will not let you.
We welcome you to come and view our game at a fee. We will decide the amount to charge you. If you can’t afford it, leave it to those who can. It is a supply and demand question. We have so far been undercharging you. I think you would be better placed complaining about the rising prices of crude oil which you cannot do without, rather than complain about the cost of viewing game which is an option you choose.
Kenya is unique in many ways. It is called a land of contrast. You should take the opportunity to tour the whole country from the Indian ocean in Mombasa to the lake Victoria in Kisumu. I guarantee you of enjoyable scenery despite your gas or surgical masks.
Again Karibu Kenya. Kenya yetu, Hakuna Matata. We are proud to be Kenyans. We are proud of our City Nairobi.
And to the racist person, we are proud of our mother Africa. We are proud to be Africans. All the diseases and weapons you have used to try to wipe us out have so far failed. We are a strong people. Insults will not do you any good.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Philadelphia — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 14:10:36 GMT

..here it goes again 1st world propaganda...it saddens also that our cities in Africa are growing becoming more like western cities (yes cities full of pollution and crime)...I am surprised that you have the audacity to question how much Kenyans are paying to see wildlife in their own country???...please look into American and European exploitation of the 3rd world populace e.g. Britain's Transit Visa policy which requires most developing countries citizens to pay $92 even if remaining airside or on the plane.
http://www.britainusa.com/visas/articles_show_nt1.asp?i=65025&L1=41000&a=41448

btw Americans and other Europeans are not required to pay..bollocks!!!

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Proud Kenyan, New Jersey — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 14:38:30 GMT

The "gentleman" that wrote this article is obviously not well traveled. Either that or he is just ignorant/arrogant which is far worse. Mr. Fletcher I challenge you to Google statistics on global pollution and you will see that the US ranks #1 and contributes 25% of the earth's pollution. Kenya is currently #87 and contributes to less than 1%. Time to take off the blinders Mr. Fletcher? Or better yet, find a more suitable career because unbiased reporting is clearly not your forte.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Proud Kenyan, New Jersey — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 15:01:18 GMT

Oh and in case you have trouble accessing Google while sneezing, coughing, and hacking from the dusty, choking streets of Nairobi, I have done so for you ... no charge ...

http://www.nationmaster.com/red/pie/env_co2_emi-environment-co2-emissions

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Kevin K — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 15:15:07 GMT

The $100 fee is not a price for seeing animals but the rather a contribution to ensure the continuity of the gameparks. There's wildlife conservation costs, security costs and animal care costs. How else do you expect your great grandchildren to see the same rhinos that you saw 10 years ago. Paying your airline and hotel fees to see this beautiful country was a choice you made. You could have gone to Iceland instead - I don't think there's much pollution there.

Kenya, that 583,000 Square Km country has enough land for it's 2.2% population growth. If you honestly think that cars are choking wildlife and tree growth you really need to continue watching soaps and live the real world alone, you're not equipped to handle real issues. If you called for culling of Kenyans, it is symptomatic of abuse suffered as a child, you so need a hug, and some love from mankind, then maybe you'll develop some.

If you really want to make a case for car pollution then the same passion should be engaged urging GM to stop making hummers.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

sash b, Nairobi , Kenya — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 15:43:25 GMT

Poor Mr Fletcher! didnt ur country warn you about pollution in Nairobi in their travel advisory? or about the stench? Am sure there is a clone of Nairobi in another galaxy and that is where you were. I have lived and worked in Nairobi for the past 20 years. The city is, for the past few years now, clean, lined with leafy trees everywhere, even the so called downtown matatu terminals are now paved, lit and swept daily. Mr Fletcher when exactly did you last visit Nairobi?
As for KWS charges, what did you expect? to land at JKIA and walk into the Nairobi National Park or wherever it is you wanted to go, for a song? We are a Third World country but that doesnt mean we are stupid. Tourism is a business not a school day out.
Oh and by the way I do use the public transport, as do 2 million other Nairobians and tourists. NO STANDING PASSENGERS are allowed.Can you say the same for TEL AVIV?
Do visit again when your mind is open enough to appreciate something different.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Mary — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 16:19:57 GMT

Mr. Fletcher - have you ever been to Los Angeles? As you exit the airport buildings, the stench in the air hits you hard. I always have problems breathing for a few minutes until my lungs can get accustomed to the heavy polluted air. And this is at LAX. At least Nairobi is only dealing with the exhaust fumes on roads while everywhere else languishes in clean air. A word of advice - focus on fixing domestic issues before trying to meddle in international affairs.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

S.M. Nairobi, Kenya — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 16:22:54 GMT

I was born and raised in Nairobi and I have clean lungs.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

G-Man, Nor Cal, USA — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 22:18:54 GMT

does Nairobi stink as bad as Stockton, CA?? is the pollution as bad as San Fran or L.A.?? If not, I think we should worry about our own problems here in America rather than those of another country.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Wanjiru, Nairobi, Kenya — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 09:16:04 GMT

Since you are so alarmed about the pollution you met on the streets of Nairobi then perhaps you should extend that same line of thinking to the game parks. Those are extremely delicate ecosystems that really do not need millions of cheap tourists roaring around and polluting the place. Simple logic. I say hike the rates as high as they can go.
And the air in Nairobi is hardly as bad as that in New York, Mexico City or parts of China. I personally developed lung complications when I lived in NYC - in Nairobi, my lungs are free and clear.
As for tree cover - please Google Earth the damn place and see how green (and much greener it will be) it is...
We do have our issues with traffic and housing but which city of over 3 million people doesn't? Many of the problems stem back to the colonial era - but let's not go there.
In general to all of you who read this piece and agreed with it or didn't - why not take some time out to learn about a place before spewing ignorant comments on the web.
Get the facts right please.

Losing the anti-pollution battle in Nairobi

Gene, USA — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 10:22:55 GMT

You couldn't pay me to step foot on ANY 3rd world continent.