Kisumu County Governor, Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o, has raised concerns over the growing environmental degradation in the county, attributing it to unchecked sand and murram harvesting along roads and rivers. He warned that these activities, particularly in areas such as Kajulu, Nyakach, and Miwani, are causing severe ecological damage and threatening the region’s natural resources.
Nyong’o noted that rampant extraction is leading to land degradation, destruction of rural roads, and disruption of fish breeding grounds, which could have long-term consequences for the local economy and food security. Additionally, he highlighted other adverse effects, including noise pollution, school dropouts, and damage to both private and public property due to unregulated mining activities.
Speaking to the media from his office, the governor emphasized that the county government is committed to enforcing existing environmental regulations. These include the Environmental Management and Coordination Act (1999, revised 2015), the Mining Act (2016), and the Kisumu County Sand, Murram, and Minerals Harvesting Guidelines (2021). These laws aim to curb illegal extraction and ensure that natural resources are utilized sustainably.
“We will not allow unscrupulous individuals to destroy our environment for short-term gains,” Nyong’o stated. “Kisumu County is rich in various minerals spread across our eight sub-counties. These resources provide livelihoods for many, so we must harness them responsibly while conserving the environment.”
To enhance enforcement, the county government will collaborate with the State Department of Mining to regulate artisanal mining and prevent further destruction. The governor warned that violators will face hefty fines, be required to restore damaged land, and could face legal action for non-compliance.
Nyong’o further outlined plans to strengthen governance and formalization efforts through Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), which will help minimize the negative effects of mining and promote sustainable development.
The governor’s firm stance underscores the urgency of protecting Kisumu’s natural resources and ensuring that mining activities do not compromise the county’s environmental integrity. His administration’s efforts signal a crucial step towards achieving a balance between economic development and ecological conservation.
