Fernandes Barasa has called for the temporary suspension of mining activities in parts of Kakamega County following heavy rains that have affected several areas.
Speaking during a public event, the governor urged miners operating in Ikolomani and Shinyalu to immediately stop operations until the weather conditions improve.
According to Barasa, the ongoing heavy rains and flooding have increased the risk of mine collapses, which could endanger the lives of miners working in the affected areas.
“I want to ask miners in these areas to stop mining because if you continue operating under these conditions, you are putting your lives at risk,” the governor said.
Large parts of western Kenya have been experiencing sustained rainfall in recent weeks, raising concerns about flooding, landslides and other safety hazards in vulnerable areas.
The governor warned that mining sites become particularly dangerous during heavy rains because the soil becomes unstable, increasing the chances of accidents in underground shafts and open pits.
Barasa also urged residents living in flood-prone areas across the county to consider relocating temporarily to safer grounds until the rains subside.
He noted that prevention measures were necessary to protect lives, especially in low-lying areas that are often affected by flooding during periods of heavy rainfall.
“During this time when floods are being experienced, prevention is better than cure. Residents should avoid staying in flooded areas to prevent loss of lives,” he added.
The governor’s call comes at a time when safety concerns around mining activities have been rising in several parts of the country.
Last month, Anyang Nyong’o announced a ban on mining and quarrying activities in Kisumu County following the drowning of four boys in a quarry on February 8.
Nyong’o said the directive particularly targeted sand harvesting and murram extraction activities that had created unsafe open pits in different parts of the county.
He indicated that only operators with proper legal approvals and clear safety measures would be allowed to resume operations after further review.
The Kisumu county government also announced plans to work with the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) to strengthen oversight of mining and quarrying activities.
According to Nyong’o, a task force would be formed to conduct a comprehensive audit of quarry sites, ensure compliance with environmental regulations and take action against individuals or companies operating illegally.
Authorities say such measures are necessary to ensure mining activities are conducted safely while protecting communities and the environment from potential risks.
