Ikolomani Residents Vow to Keep Mining Despite Deadly Clashes

Locals Stand Their Ground

Ikolomani residents have vowed not to abandon their small-scale gold mining activities, even after violent clashes left three people dead during protests over control of mineral-rich land.

Days after the chaos, the miners maintained that gold extraction remains their only source of income. They insisted they would keep digging despite plans by a major company seeking rights to the area.

Armed with basic tools, many residents say gold mining has sustained their families for generations. Most extract only a few grams at a time.

“This is our job. We wake up every morning to do this work. Without it, we cannot eat,” one miner said.

Gold as a ‘Family Savings Account’

Others described the gold beneath their homes as a “natural savings account” passed down from one generation to another.

“In one day, we can make between Sh1,000 and Sh5,000. If we move out, where will we get an income?” another resident asked.

Ikolomani’s gold deposits are valued at about Ksh 680 billion. Despite this enormous potential, locals fear that commercial mining could push them aside without any economic safety net.

The residents said they were open to future agreements but demanded firm assurances that their livelihoods would remain protected.

Deadly Protests Intensify Tensions

Their firm stance comes after violent protests on Thursday, December 4. Three people were shot dead, while several others, including police officers and journalists, sustained serious injuries.

Tensions began when villagers in Isulu blocked National Environment Management Authority officials and representatives from Shanta Gold Company from accessing Emusali Primary School for a public participation forum.

Police later said most of the fatalities were suspected hired goons who attacked journalists covering the unrest.

Government Eyes Major Mining Project

Mining Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai met the leadership of a major gold firm in November to discuss future mining projects in Western Kenya, including Kakamega, Siaya and Vihiga.

The government has already approved operations in the Bushiangala and Isulu zones. The company plans to invest between Ksh 22 billion and Ksh 27 billion in an underground mine and processing plant.
The project is expected to run for at least eight years.