The national government has suspended all mining activities in the county of Homa Bay following the heavy rains experienced in the country.
Homa Bay County Commissioner Moses Lilan issued a directive that no one should engage in the excavation of minerals until a time when the weather is favourable for such activities.
The suspension is meant to prevent possible injuries and deaths when quarries collapse.
Lilan said the ongoing rain is likely to lead to the collapse of mining sites and cause harm.
“The grounds are weak during rains. To avoid possible injury or even death mining sites must remain closed and no one should engage get into those areas,” Lilan said.
Speaking during the distribution of relief food to flood-affected persons in Osodo primary, Karachuonyo constituency, Lilan said they target the Karachuonyo, Suba North and Rangwe due to rampant harvesting of sand and stone mining in the areas.
Lilan who also chairs the county disaster management committee issued an order stopping anyone from accessing areas where sand is excavated.
“We have agreed with the county leadership for this order to be implemented,” the county commissioner said.
Karachuonyo MP Adipo Okuome said he had engaged some residents who engage in the sale of sand to follow the government’s directive.
“We held discussions with community members and advised them on the benefits of protecting the environment,” Okuome said.
A team is currently mapping out riparian land to protect them from encroachment.
Lilan said they are also assessing water levels in water pans, reservoirs and dams to ensure they do not break and flood homes.
He said at least 1283 people are living in camps as others are accommodated by their relatives.
By Matildah Obaigwa
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