At least two women were killed and four others injured on Saturday when a gold mine collapsed in Kambi Karaya village, Sigor, West Pokot County. The tragic incident occurred around 12:30 p.m. while the victims were inside the mine. The injured individuals were rushed to a nearby health facility, where they are reported to be in stable condition.
West Pokot County Commissioner Khalif Abdullahi confirmed the incident, stating that authorities would investigate the cause of the collapse. However, this tragedy is just the latest in a series of fatal mining accidents in the region, raising concerns over the safety of artisanal miners.
Mining-related fatalities have been on the rise in various parts of Kenya. In December, four people lost their lives in a similar incident at the same site. Just last week, an 18-year-old woman died while mining gold in Korosion village along the River Turkwel. Additionally, at least five female artisanal miners perished in a tragic accident at the Lumba gold mine in North Ramba, Rarieda sub-county, Siaya County. One woman remains missing following the collapse, with rescue efforts stretching into the night.
Similarly, three artisanal miners died in Rera village, Gem Wagai sub-county, in another gold mine accident. Reports indicate that a group of six women were engaged in routine mining activities when the shaft suddenly caved in, burying them alive.
The increasing frequency of such incidents has sparked concerns about the safety of artisanal mining operations. Experts and local authorities attribute these collapses to the use of heavy machinery, which weakens the walls of the mines, making them prone to cave-ins. Despite repeated warnings and calls for improved safety measures, many miners continue to work in dangerous conditions due to economic necessity.
West Pokot, like many other gold-rich regions in Kenya, attracts numerous artisanal miners who depend on mining as a primary source of livelihood. However, without adequate safety protocols and regulatory oversight, the risks remain high.
As investigations continue, there is growing pressure on the government and relevant authorities to enforce stricter safety regulations and provide training for miners to prevent further tragedies.
