Gold deposits./AI ILLUSTRATIONA major gold mining proposal in Kakamega South has met resistance from local communities who say they are concerned about possible environmental, cultural, and social impacts if the project proceeds.
Shanta Gold Limited, a British-based mining firm, recently announced the discovery of what it describes as one of Kenya’s largest gold deposits, valued at an estimated Sh683 billion.
The company’s feasibility study indicates that about 337 acres of predominantly privately owned land would be required, potentially affecting approximately 800 households.
According to an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report submitted to the National Environment Management Authority (Nema), the company’s Kenyan subsidiary has confirmed 1.27 million ounces of gold at the Isulu-Bushiangala underground mining site in Kakamega South Sub-county.
The study, prepared by Kurrent Technologies Limited together with South Africa’s Digby Wells Environmental, proposes a large-scale underground mine covering Musoli and Isulu locations, roughly 55 kilometres from Kisumu.
However, residents of Isulu, Bushiangala, and Musoli have formally expressed opposition to the project. In a memorandum submitted to Nema, community members say they have concerns about how consultations were carried out, as well as potential effects on the environment and local livelihoods.
“We object the approval of this project because it is a private commercial venture, not a public purpose project, and therefore cannot lawfully acquire ancestral land without consent,” the memo states.
The document also argues that the project could impact cultural heritage, household incomes, and community welfare if safeguards are not clearly outlined.
Residents say issues raised in an earlier petition submitted in July 2025 have not been fully addressed. They cite what they describe as gaps in public participation, including the absence of translated materials and limited engagement with women, elders, and people with disabilities.
The memorandum notes that a scheduled public hearing on November 11 did not proceed, which residents interpret as recognition that further consultations may be necessary.
Community members say a survey they conducted across 18 villages showed that many households had not reviewed the EIA report, and they are requesting that all documents be made available in Kiswahili, Luhya, and accessible formats.
Residents have also raised concerns about potential environmental impacts, saying more clarity is needed on how the mine would manage waste, protect water sources such as the Yala, Luyeku, Mukongolo, and Itechedi rivers, and address dust, fumes, and other emissions associated with mining.
Cultural preservation and social well-being are additional issues highlighted by the community. They say sacred sites and graves exist within the project area and want a Cultural Heritage Management Plan developed in consultation with local custodians.
They are also requesting detailed gender and GBV mitigation plans should the project move forward.
The memorandum calls on NEMA to respond formally to all submissions, ensure accessible public participation, and conduct further hearings in all affected villages before any licensing decision is made.
