Gold Mining Tensions Rise in West Pokot

Fears Sparked by Kakamega Violence
On December 13, 2025, West Pokot leaders expressed fears of deadly gold mining clashes in their county. These fears followed violent incidents in Kakamega’s Ikolomani area, where three people died and several others were injured.

Residents Protest Proposed Gold Project
Residents opposed Shanta Gold’s proposed large-scale project, citing displacement of 800 households and poor consultation. Consequently, they demanded proper involvement and lawful consent before mining activities commence.

Leaders Stress Community Engagement
Officials emphasized that miners must fully involve local communities and avoid claims of government influence. Sigor MP Peter Lochakapong insisted that engagement with residents is essential to prevent disputes.

Transparency and Public Participation Demanded
Lochakapong highlighted graft and lack of transparency in the gold market. Moreover, he urged transparent mining activities with proper public participation to secure community consent.

Concerns Over Exploitation and Environment
Leaders raised concerns about exploitation by outsiders, environmental degradation, and price manipulation by middlemen. Additionally, they cited corruption within the local mining sector as a growing challenge.

Inter-Clan Conflicts and Illegal Mining
Inter-clan conflicts over land and mineral rights have been documented in West Pokot. Furthermore, illegal mining has degraded land, threatening farms and school compounds.

Socio-Economic Disruptions Reported
Children have abandoned school to work in mines, while some girls faced early marriages. Therefore, leaders warned that mining activities are disrupting social and economic stability.

NEMA Confirms Environmental Violations
West Pokot County NEMA director Protus Musawa confirmed widespread violations of environmental regulations. He reported air and noise pollution across more than 500 mining sites.