Alarm raised over mining effects on people's health

Gold deposits./AI ILLUSTRATION

Communities living near mining and mineral prospecting sites have shared concerns over the social and environmental impact of extractive activities in areas such as Magadi in Kajiado County, Ramula in Siaya, and parts of Kilifi.

Residents described challenges including environmental pollution, noise from blasting and disruption to farming and daily life.

Pregnant and widowed women, speaking to parliamentary committees on environment, forestry, mining, lands and natural resources, said some had experienced miscarriages they attributed to mine blasting.

Concerns were also raised over safety, with some residents reporting accidents in mining areas and limited safety measures for local workers.

Roda Paratai from Isinya in Kajiado said limestone mining in Kajiado West had negatively affected the environment.

She described damaged roads from mineral transport, contamination of water sources and loss of ancestral lands.

“There is no compensation for sickness, injury, or loss of life,” she said, calling for remedial measures for affected residents.

Gladys Mong’are, senior programme adviser on land, environment and resource justice at the Kenya Human Rights Commission, said some investors may take advantage of local poverty to acquire land at low prices. She urged clear demarcation of residential, mining and industrial areas to protect communities.

In Ramula, Siaya county, Leonard Mbithi described intimidation and surveillance that he said affected residents who expressed concerns about mining activities.

“There are no human rights protections there. Those who speak against mining companies risk harassment or legal action,” he said.

MPs, including National Assembly environment, forestry and mining committee vice chairperson Charles Kamuren, said government agencies must ensure communities are protected and unsafe mining operations are addressed.

“Mining companies that endanger lives must be held accountable,” he said.

Mining PS Harry Kimutai said the government is committed to ensuring peaceful and sustainable coexistence between communities and investors.

He emphasised the importance of responsible resource exploitation and revenue sharing, noting that 10 per cent of mining revenue is allocated to local communities, 20 per cent to county governments and 70 per cent to the national government.

The PS said the government is compiling details of revenue due to each county for release.

INSTANT ANALYSIS

Kenya possesses significant mineral wealth, including titanium, soda ash, limestone, and gold. While the government promotes investment under the Mining Act 2016, these developments highlight the need for balancing economic growth with the protection of local communities and the environment.