Several murram mining sites in Mombasa have been shut-down over fear of environmental degradation and deaths.
Many
cases have been reported to different authorities in Mombasa.
Governor Hassan Joho shut down the sites during a spontaneous
tour on Friday of Kashani in Shanzu.
Joho was with county officials including transport executive member Taufiq Balala.
One of the murram mining sites in Kashani, Shanzu, that Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho shut down on September 23, 2017. /ELKANA JACOB
One of the murram mining sites in Kashani, Shanzu, that Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho shut down on September 23, 2017. /ELKANA JACOB
The Governor noted lives must take priority over quick money-making.
“We should first consider human life. My administration will take all measures possible to ensure everybody enjoys a good life," he said.
Joho and the officials later had lunch at a grass-thatched kibanda where he offered to help mama
Tatu Kalama and Fatuma Mdzombo for serving them Coastal delicacies.
The women sell food to workers at the sites and people living nearby. Joho
said he will give them Sh50,000 each so they can set up businesses.
Mombass Governor Hassan Joho with mama Tatu Kalama and Fatuma Mdzombo at their kibanda, September 23, 2017. /ELKANA JACOB
Mombass Governor Hassan Joho with mama Tatu Kalama and Fatuma Mdzombo at their kibanda, September 23, 2017. /ELKANA JACOB
But murram dealers led by Mwambiyu Kalume noted the work is their only source of income as finding jobs in the country is a nightmare.
“This was our only money-making deal. What will we do next?"