Due to continuous rain across the country, the central government has suspended all mining activities in Homa Bay District.
County Commissioner Moses Rylan issued a directive that no one should engage in mineral excavation until the weather was favorable for such activities.
The moratorium on mining is aimed at preventing injuries and deaths that could occur if the quarry were to collapse.
Mr Lilan said continued rain was likely to lead to the mine site collapsing, causing damage.
“When it rains, the ground weakens. To avoid possible injury or death, the mining site should remain closed and no one should enter the area,” Rylan said.
Mr Lilan was speaking during the distribution of relief food to flood victims in Osodo primary constituency of Karachuonyo, adding that Karachuonyo, Suva North and Langwe have been targeted due to rampant sand and stone mining in the area. He said that it has become.
Some residents engage in sand and stone mining to make a living.
Mr. Lilan, who is also the chairman of the county disaster management committee, issued an order prohibiting entry to the area where sand is being excavated.
“We have reached an agreement with county leadership to implement this order,” the county commissioner said.
Karachuonyo MP Adipo Okuome said he had engaged some residents engaged in the sale of sand to comply with government directives.
“We spoke to local residents and advised them on the environmental benefits,” Mr Okuome said.
The team is currently mapping riparian land to protect it from erosion.
Liran said water levels in water tanks, reservoirs and dams are also being assessed to ensure homes do not collapse and flood.
He said at least 1,283 people were living in the camp.
The county commissioner said, “The rest are being housed by relatives.''
County Decentralization Executive Grace Osewe and Roads Officer Danish Alu said the decentralization department would assist the affected residents.
