Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has ordered the immediate closure of high-risk mines to protect miners.
The CS ordered a countrywide crackdown on all mines to determine those that pose a risk to the miners.
Moreover, the Interior CS on Wednesday, April 26 stated that the government will not sit back and wait for deaths and injuries caused by collapsing mines, especially with heavy rains experienced in various parts of the country.
While speaking at the Bumutiru gold site in Butula Sub County, Busia County, the CS stressed that their priority is to have preventive security measures rather than corrective interventions.
“When disaster strikes, the often-asked question is, where was the government? We want to ensure that incidents that result in deaths and injuries in mines are prevented before they occur. Our work as the government is to facilitate Kenyans to work in a safe and secure environment.”
Furthermore, CS Kindiki urged individuals conducting mining activities in Bumutiru to apply for licenses from the mines and geology department.
He also directed that abandoned mines be rehabilitated to the satisfaction of the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA).
While speaking about the issue of illegal mining, Kindiki ordered the immediate registration of all persons working at Bumutiru gold sites.
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“All persons working here at Bumutiru gold mines must be registered immediately. Whether they are locals or foreigners, all people residing here must be known, their names and ID numbers clearly listed,” he said.
Nonetheless, the Interior CS highlighted foreigners from the neighboring countries, including Uganda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, must adhere to the laid-down procedures and regulations of Kenya.
He further warned parents, guardians, and National Administration officers against allowing child labor in mines.
“Any child found working in these mines instead of being in school, their parents will bear the consequences. Any National Administration officer who allows children in their jurisdiction to work will be held responsible,” he warned.
Similarly, Kindiki directed NEMA to conduct an environmental and social impact assessment on the Bumutiru gold mines and submit a report with recommendations within 30 days.
