A tragic incident unfolded on Monday evening when a gold mine collapsed in Khayega, Kakamega, trapping at least 20 miners inside the shaft. The collapse occurred at around 6 pm, causing immediate panic among local residents and miners alike. Emergency rescue teams swiftly mobilized to the scene, with a multi-agency response involving the Kenya Red Cross, county disaster management, local police, and community volunteers.
As the hours passed, there was a ray of hope. By early Tuesday, 12 miners had been successfully rescued. The rescue efforts were led by a dedicated team, which included local authorities, emergency services, and miners who were already working in the vicinity. Of those rescued, eight miners were pulled out immediately following the incident and were reported to be unharmed. These lucky few, without any injuries, were quickly assessed and treated by medical personnel on the scene.
Shinyalu sub-county police commander Daniel Makumbu spoke to the press, confirming that rescue operations were still in progress and that efforts would continue until all trapped miners are accounted for. “The search and rescue operations are ongoing,” Makumbu said, urging the community to stay clear of the area, as the collapsed shaft posed a significant risk of further accidents. “We are not going to allow people to mill near it because we do not want more casualties,” he added.
Kakamega has long been known for its rich gold deposits, making it a hotspot for artisanal miners seeking to strike it rich. However, the mining sector in the region remains largely informal and fraught with risks. The collapse at Khayega is not the first of its kind. In 2023, two miners tragically lost their lives after another mine in Ikolomani collapsed. Despite the dangers, the sector continues to attract thousands of workers, many of whom are trying to make a living in the absence of stable employment options.
This recent incident highlights the persistent safety challenges faced by miners in Kakamega. While artisanal mining offers substantial financial rewards, it remains a perilous endeavor due to inadequate safety measures and unregulated operations. The government has acknowledged these risks and pledged support for the mining community. This includes the development of a gold refinery in the region, aimed at boosting safety and productivity within the sector.
As search and rescue operations continue, the hopes of finding the remaining miners alive remain high. The community and officials are closely monitoring the situation, with the priority being to rescue every miner trapped in the collapsed shaft.
