Residents of Kajiado West sub-County are worried after the county government threatened to close down the multi-million shilling Magadi Soda ash plant due to huge debts.
The company has been embroiled in a long-running feud over land rates, levies and permits.
Residents of Pakashe, Ol Kiramatian, Shompole and Nkurumani villages in Kajiado West sub-County are dependent on this company for their livelihood.
At least 490 employees and 800 contractors now fear that they might lose their jobs. Besides employment, the company has been funding millions of health, education, water and community empowerment initiatives.
Mr Parkuyiare Ole Musanga, 55, of Illparakuo village, told the Nation at Magadi Level Four Hospital on Friday, that Tata Chemicals' closure would kill the 'cow' they have been milking for years.
"This company is our lifeline, without it, our children's aspirations will be dashed," he said.
"Our expectant mothers from our pastoralist community give birth safely in this only public hospital and the closure of such a facility might lead to high mortality rates among children and mothers," she said.
The railway line owned by Tata Chemicals, which transports trona to the Kajiado depot before it is exported to Mombasa for international shipping, has also been an important means of transport for locals who pay only Sh70 over a distance they would normally pay at least Sh1,000 while using Public service vehicles. Nation.
