The Hiden Costs of Unregulated Artisinal Gold Mining in Vihiga County

We have to face some hard reality here today. As we speak in the serene greenery of Vihiga County lies a dark reality that threatens the lives of our young people. The allure of gold has lured many into the depths of unregulated mining, where danger lurks at every corner. This morning, the harsh truth hit home once again as news broke of yet another tragedy unfolding in Chanda, Chambiti Village.

Five young souls now find themselves trapped within the confines of a treacherous mine, their fate hanging in the balance. With each passing hour, anxiety mounts, and the uncertainty of their condition grips the community in a somber embrace.

But this is not an isolated incident; it is a recurring nightmare that has plagued Vihiga County for years. The toll of unregulated gold mining is measured not just in lives lost and bodies injured but in the shattered dreams of families torn apart by grief.

These are but dark times for a generation. Anyone that has had an opportunity to visit these sites will tell you. Deep shafts created by young men burrowing through the earth with crude equipment. You meet them rugged and worn out after days and nights without sleep scavenging for a piece, a morsel through uncertainty. And we have to appreciate their resolve and drive. Still one wonders why should they be placed or place themselves through such dangerous endevors? Should the cost of seeking a livelihood be life itself? Still there are those that do nothing but drop by just after the toil to take away hard earned proceeds at very painful prices.

It is time to shine a spotlight on this pressing issue and demand action. We cannot turn a blind eye to the human cost of greed and negligence. We must raise our voices in solidarity with the victims and their families, demanding accountability from those responsible for overseeing these unregulated mining activities.

At Forezava we have had this conversation before and it wont end here. Lets give young people an opportunity to see a future. Stakeholders making an effort to open up agricultural opportunities require support. Those enabling digital transition need a fair working environment. But most importantly a thorough crackdown by on brokers who trade the future for a mearsely morsel served today in tears and pain. 

To our friends held down at Chanda, we wish you the very best! 

(An Update 11:50 PM, Feb, 22nd 2024: Two of the gold miners were rescued and three unfortunately succumbed, our thoughts are with families of the deceased)

About Author: Kevin Makova

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