The government orders the closure of all mines to avoid disaster during El Nino

Siaya,

Friday, October 20, 2023

KNA by Philip Onyango 

The Government has put a halt to all mining activities in Siaya County, as part of the measures to avoid deaths in the mines, during El Nino rains.

Announcing the closure of mining activities in the area, County Commissioner, Jim Njoka, ordered both the County and Sub-county security teams and members of the National Administration, to ensure compliance.

Addressing the public at the KMTC grounds in Siaya town after delivering the Presidential Speech, during this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations, Njoka said Siaya was known for collapsing gold mines that often led to loss of lives and the same cannot be allowed to happen. 

The Commissioner said he was ready to face the wrath of the miners and local leadership, in regard to the order rather than allow a situation where citizens, will lose their lives in collapsed mines. 

Njoka at the same time called on families living in flood-prone areas, to move to safer grounds early enough, saying that weather experts have issued a timely warning. 

On security, the County Commissioner assured the public that the security officials were up to the task and would not allow criminals, to reign in the region. 

He, however, lamented that incidents of mob justice were on the rise in the area and urged the public, to desist from taking the law into their own hands. 

Njoka announced that arrangements for the National Examinations that kick off next week have been finalized in the County and assured the public of security, during the period. 

He announced a ban on discos in the region during the examination period, adding that the candidates required a tranquil environment to revise and sit for the Examinations. 

Siaya Governor, James Orengo, through the County Secretary, Joseph Ogutu, said the County has been and continues to be the cradle of heroism, adding that all must foster an environment where heroism can flourish. 

He said that improvement of the quality of life of the people of Siaya, inclusivity, and equity will characterize his leadership, adding that his Administration, will give particular attention to programs and projects, that will improve and impact positively on the people’s livelihoods.

“We are dedicated to improving the livelihoods of our citizens, fostering an environment where talent can thrive, and creating a Siaya County that is not only a regional powerhouse, but also a place where heroism is nurtured, celebrated, and passed down from one generation to the next,” said the Governor. 

The occasion was also graced by the Siaya County Police Commander, Michael Muchiri, Deputy County Commissioner, Robert Ng’etich, and the Siaya County Government’s Chief of Staff, Colonel (retired), Cyrus Oguna among others.

Courtesy; KNA