West Pokot Governor Calls for Regulation of Gold Mining Activities Amid Tragedy

West Pokot Governor Simon Kachapin has condemned the collapse of a gold mine at Karoon village, which resulted in the death of four miners and hospitalization of five others. During a visit to the site, the governor called for regulation of gold mining activities, warning against unregulated and unsafe mining practices. He emphasized the need for structured laws to ensure safety and benefit sharing for local communities. The governor also praised the peace and stability achieved between West Pokot and Turkana counties, attributing it to collaborative efforts and peace initiatives.

Key Takeaways:

• The gold mine collapse in Karoon village resulted in the death of four miners and hospitalization of five others, with nine miners buried in the mine shaft.
• Governor Simon Kachapin condemned the incident and called for regulation of gold mining activities, emphasizing the need for structured laws to ensure safety and benefit sharing.
• The governor warned against unregulated and unsafe mining practices, urging miners to follow government-led guidelines and safety measures.
• Member of Parliament of Pokot South Constituency David Pkosing blamed certain leaders for spreading false information to locals for political mileage.
• West Pokot Deputy Speaker Victor Siywat supported the call for regulation and safety in mining activities, suggesting that mining should be temporarily halted until proper procedures and laws are in place.
• Member of County Assembly Francis Krop emphasized the need for leaders to collaborate on rescue management and pointed out the need for streamlining legal gaps, especially the distinction between land ownership by the county government and mineral ownership by the national government.

Statistics:

• 4 miners died in the gold mine collapse at Karoon village.
• 5 miners are hospitalized at the Kapenguria County Referral Hospital.
• 9 miners were buried in the mine shaft.
• 4 of the 9 miners trapped in the mine died.
• 5 miners survived and are receiving medical attention.
• The county government has other mineral resources, including gold, which locals seek as an alternative livelihood.

Sources:

• Kenya News Agency, 09 June 2025
• Governor Simon Kachapin, Deputy Speaker Victor Siywat, Member of County Assembly Francis Krop, and Member of Parliament of Pokot South Constituency David Pkosing.