Eighteen miners have been rescued from a collapsed gold mine in Kakamega, with ongoing efforts for the remaining individuals. Governor Fernandes Barasa supports artisanal mining and has waived hospital fees for the injured. Plans for a gold refinery to create local jobs were announced, along with calls for better sector management.
The ongoing rescue operations at a collapsed gold mine in Kakamega have successfully saved 18 individuals, while efforts continue to reach others still trapped. The incident occurred on Monday night at Emachilifu village, where an initial count of 20 miners were reported missing. The rescued miners are receiving treatment at Kakamega General Hospital to stabilize their health conditions.
Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa visited the site on Tuesday, reaffirming the county government’s dedication to the safety of artisanal miners. He emphasized the importance of artisanal mining for local livelihoods, stating, “I support artisanal mining. I will make sure we enhance the safety of our people who are involved in artisanal mining because that is their source of income.” Governor Barasa also announced that hospital fees would be waived for the miners admitted due to the incident.
Additionally, the governor revealed plans to expedite the construction of a gold refinery in Ikolomani, aimed at creating job opportunities for local youth. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to improve the mining sector’s management in Kakamega to ensure that local communities benefit directly. Patrick Ligami, Chairperson of the Artisanal Mining Committee, encouraged the governor to enhance the governance of the mining industry in order to maximize its benefits for residents.
The collapse of the gold mine in Kakamega reflects ongoing safety risks associated with artisanal mining practices, which are vital for economic sustenance in many local communities. The local government plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and health of miners, especially in situations where accidents occur. Establishing mining regulations and support infrastructure such as hospitals can mitigate future risks. The recent incident underscores the importance of promoting safe mining practices and providing immediate support to affected miners while planning for long-term benefits through local job creation. The announcement of a gold refinery indicates a strategic move toward a more sustainable mining economy.
In summary, the rescue operations at the Kakamega gold mine have successfully saved 18 miners, with ongoing efforts for others. Governor Barasa’s commitment to enhancing safety and creating job opportunities through a new gold refinery showcases a proactive approach to improve the mining sector. The community’s call for better management reflects a shared interest in sustainable practices that benefit local miners while ensuring their safety.
Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke
