New Study Shows Reduced Life Expectancy in Polluted Areas

A recent report of major concern reveals that air pollution is shortening average life expectancy in Kenya, especially in areas with very high pollution levels. According to the Air Quality Life Index (AQLI), the typical Kenyan could gain about 1 year and 1 month of life if air pollution were reduced to meet World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.
The data suggests that some counties are particularly hard hit. For instance, in Kisumu, one of Kenya’s more polluted regions, residents could live up to 2 years longer if pollution levels were curbed. Even in Nairobi, air pollution is estimated to be shaving off 1.2 years of life on average per person.
Part of the problem stems from both outdoor pollution (from vehicles, industry, and burning waste) and household air pollution, especially in homes that use charcoal, firewood, and other solid fuels for cooking. According to national data, more than 26,000 Kenyans die every year due to health complications linked to indoor air pollution.
Health experts are calling for urgent action. They recommend scaling up clean energy solutions, stricter regulation of polluting sources, and stronger public health investments to reduce household and ambient air pollution. Addressing these issues could significantly improve the life expectancy of people living in Kenya’s most polluted communities.