BY DENNIS WECHE -Kakamega, Kenya.
Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa today visited Imachilifu Village, Museno Community Area, Isukha South Ward, Shinyalu Constituency, following the collapse of a gold mining shaft that trapped 20 miners underground last evening.
A swift response by the County Disaster Management Team, local rescue teams, and emergency responders led to the successful rescue of 18 miners. Ten are currently receiving treatment at Kakamega County General Hospital, while eight have been treated and discharged. Efforts are ongoing to rescue the two miners still trapped underground.
Governor Barasa commended the coordinated rescue efforts, acknowledging the dedication and urgency displayed.
“I appreciate the swift and tireless efforts of the County Disaster Team, emergency responders, and local volunteers who have worked relentlessly to save lives. The county government remains fully committed to supporting the rescue efforts and ensuring the safety of our miners,” he said.
The incident has reignited concerns over safety in artisanal mining, a sector employing thousands in Kakamega County. Governor Barasa emphasized the urgent need for structural reforms and enhanced safety measures to prevent similar tragedies.
He urged the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs to expedite the Ikolomani Gold Refinery Plant project, which aims to improve safety standards, enhance working conditions, and formalize artisanal mining operations.
“Artisanal mining is a key economic activity in our county, but it must be safe and regulated to prevent loss of lives. I urge the national government to fast-track the Ikolomani Gold Refinery Plant to provide safer and more sustainable mining opportunities,” he stated.
Kakamega County, home to a rich gold belt spanning Ikolomani, Rosterman, and parts of Shinyalu, has seen a rise in mining-related accidents due to unregulated and unsafe practices. While mining provides economic opportunities, poor safety standards, inadequate equipment, and weak regulatory enforcement continue to endanger miners.
Industry experts and local leaders are calling for investments in safer mining technologies, stronger oversight, and specialized training for artisanal miners to reduce accidents.
Governor Barasa assured affected families that the county government would provide medical assistance, counseling, and other support. He also directed the county’s mining and disaster management departments to immediately assess all artisanal mining sites for structural integrity and safety compliance.
“This tragedy is a wake-up call. We must work collaboratively to enhance safety in our mining sector. The county government will engage stakeholders to enforce strict safety standards,” he affirmed.
Rescue operations continue for the two miners still trapped underground, with specialized teams working around the clock. The county government has pledged full support for both the ongoing rescue efforts and long-term safety measures in the mining sector.