Officials from the State Department for Mining have cautioned artisanal miners in Siaya County to suspend underground mining activities ahead of predicted El Niño rains to prevent fatal mine collapses.
Speaking during a Mazingira Day environmental event at Karapul Junior School, Siaya County Inspector of Mines Tikani Morris warned that increased soil moisture during heavy rainfall significantly heightens the risk of cave-ins.
”Most of the deaths that occur in mining sites are as a result of mine collapses,” Morris said. “When it rains, soil density increases, and most artisanal miners operate underground where the soil might cave in at any time. We have pleaded with them that once El Niño starts, they should put down their tools, return to their farms, and wait until the rainy season passes.”
The Ministry of Mining is collaborating with National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO) to conduct community awareness forums (barazas) and enforce safety regulations. Authorities emphasized that legal measures will be taken against miners who disregard safety guidelines during the heavy rains.
Despite the ongoing seasonal risks, Morris noted progress in regional mine safety following sustained awareness campaigns and environmental education. For the 2025–2026 reporting period, the county recorded four mine-related fatalities, marking a significant drop compared to previous years.
As part of long-term sector reforms, the State Department is encouraging informal miners to join cooperatives to formalize operations, enhance safety standards, and obtain official artisanal mining permits. Siaya County currently counts over 12 registered mining cooperatives, several of which have already been granted mining licenses.
To mark Mazingira Day, government officials and community members engaged in a tree-planting exercise at Karapul Junior School to promote environmental rehabilitation in areas affected by mining.
Siaya Township Chief Romlulus Okoth praised the initiative, noting that mine rehabilitation awareness benefits the broader community, as many local residents work in nearby mining hubs such as South East and Central Alego.
