Statement on Aquatic Ecosystem Monitoring

1. Introduction

Kenyatta University recognizes the importance of maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems for the protection of biodiversity, water quality, and public health. Aquatic ecosystems—including rivers, lakes, wetlands, and other water bodies—support critical environmental services and sustain both natural habitats and human communities downstream.

The University is committed to systematic monitoring and management of aquatic ecosystems within and surrounding its campuses and operational facilities, including  Kikambara farms.

2. Purpose

The purpose of this statement is to formally outline Kenyatta University’s commitment to:

• Monitoring and assessing the health of aquatic ecosystems.

• Ensuring that University operations, including agricultural, laboratory, and wastewater activities, do not adversely impact water quality.

• Aligning monitoring practices with national environmental regulations (e.g., NEMA, KEBS) and international best practices, including ISO 14001 environmental management standards.

3. Scope

This statement applies to:

• All water bodies located within University campuses and adjacent areas affected by University operations.

• University facilities, including laboratories, hostels, cafeterias, and agricultural farms.

• All University staff, students, contractors, and service providers involved in activities that may impact aquatic ecosystems.

4. Monitoring and Assessment Framework

4.1 Water Quality Testing

• Biological parameters: Monitoring macroinvertebrates, microbial communities, and other bioindicators to assess ecological health.

• Chemical parameters: Regular testing of pH, dissolved oxygen, nitrates, phosphates, heavy metals, and chemical oxygen demand (COD).

• Physical parameters: Monitoring turbidity, temperature, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), and conductivity.

• Testing is conducted bi-annually or more frequently where high-risk activities are identified.

4.2 Biodiversity Assessment

• Surveys of aquatic flora and fauna to track species diversity, abundance, and the presence of invasive species.

• Monitoring changes in aquatic communities as indicators of ecological stress or pollution.

4.3 Impact Monitoring from University Operations

• Assessment of runoff from farms, stormwater drainage, and wastewater discharge points.

• Tracking nutrient and sediment loads from agricultural and campus activities.

• Implementing corrective measures to reduce pollution, such as erosion control, buffer zones, and sustainable farming practices.

5. Reporting and Documentation

• Monitoring results are documented in the University Environmental Monitoring Report.

• Non-compliance or negative trends trigger corrective and preventive actions.

• Records are maintained to support regulatory compliance, research, and continuous improvement under ISO-aligned QMS procedures.

6. Roles and Responsibilities

• Directorate of Environmental Sustainability: Overall oversight of aquatic ecosystem monitoring, reporting, and compliance.

• Estates Department: Maintenance of drainage, water infrastructure, and pollution mitigation systems.

• Farm Managers: Implementation of sustainable farming practices to reduce impact on water bodies.

• Laboratories and Research Units: Safe handling of chemicals and responsible wastewater management.

• Students and Staff: Reporting observed pollution incidents and participating in monitoring programs.

7. Continuous Improvement

• Monitoring protocols are reviewed every three years or sooner based on environmental risk, regulatory changes, or research findings.

• New technologies, research methods, and environmental management strategies are incorporated to improve the effectiveness of monitoring and protection measures.

8. Commitment Statement

Kenyatta University is fully committed to:

• Ensuring that University operations do not degrade aquatic ecosystems.

• Maintaining rigorous monitoring, reporting, and management systems aligned with ISO 14001 environmental management standards.

• Engaging the University community in fostering awareness, research, and stewardship of aquatic environments.