Kenya launches reforms to curb illegal gold mining in West Pokot
Kenya has launched a sweeping crackdown on illegal gold mining in West Pokot County following a spate of deadly accidents linked to unregulated mining activities. The county government, in partnership with national authorities, has rolled out a raft of reforms aimed at restoring order in the sector and safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of local communities.
Under the new measures, all gold miners must now obtain official licences to operate. In a move to empower small-scale miners and protect them from exploitation, the county government is encouraging them to form cooperatives. These cooperatives are expected to help streamline operations, ensure safer working conditions, and give locals greater control over the trade.
Speaking during a community engagement forum, Mining Principal Secretary Harry Kimutai emphasized the importance of forming community development agreement (CDA) associations. These bodies will oversee the distribution of royalties paid directly through the licensing system.
“For the small miners, we are urging them to form cooperatives to support them in mining. We have noted the big miners who are taking advantage of the small ones do not have licenses,” said Kimutai.
Reducing tragedies
The urgency for reform comes after a series of mining tragedies in the region. In one incident in Turkwel, four people were killed when a mine collapsed. A few days later, another fatal collapse in Kambi Karaya claimed one life. These incidents prompted the government to shut down more than 500 unlicensed mines across the county.
So far, four mining cooperatives have been registered, with 27 more expected to be formed as the reforms take root. Local leaders have expressed support for the changes but stressed the need for transparency in the licensing process.
Sigor Member of Parliament Peter Lokachapong called for inclusive consultations with miners, while Kapenguria MP Samuel Moroto revealed that Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho would soon issue certificates to compliant operators, shutting out illegal players from the sector.
The reforms also aim to address broader social and environmental concerns. County officials cited the link between unregulated mining and school dropouts, as well as environmental degradation, as key reasons for tightening oversight. With the new framework in place, authorities hope to turn gold mining into a safer, more sustainable source of income for West Pokot residents.
