Kainuk, May 19th, 2025 (Public Communications and Media Relations)

The Turkana County government has suspended mining activities in Kainuk, Aroo Sub-County, as it moves to crack down on illegal mining operations and take legal action against suspected cartels.

The County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Natural Resources, Mining, Energy and Climate Change, Leah Audan Lokaala, led a technical team to the site following complaints from the local community. Residents had raised concerns over persistent blasting, unsafe working conditions, and non-compliance with mining regulations.

“As a county, we are committed to stopping illegal mining and ensuring that all investors and miners comply with the legal requirements set for operations within Turkana,” said CECM Lokaala.

A preliminary check on compliance to mining laws and regulation at the site revealed that operators lacked including consent letters from local administrators, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) certificates, letters of no objection from the Department of Mineral Resources, county revenue clearances, and relevant permits from the state agencies.

Chief Officer for Mining, Triza Amoni, said the crackdown was part of a wider effort to regulate artisanal mining and promote sustainability.

“Individuals and investors involved in illegal practices will receive warning letters to ensure they comply with statutory requirements,” Amoni stated.

Deputy County Commissioner Yusuf Salat, who was also present, linked the rise in illegal mining to unresolved border issues between West Pokot and Turkana.

Other officials at the site included Area Chief Sarah Lochodo, Director of Mining Merimug Eloto Nickson, Deputy Director of Mining Elim Areman, and Mining Officer Niclam Eregae.