The Kenyan government has set a seven-day deadline for a multi-agency field assessment report that will clear the way for the safe and structured reopening of the Hillo Gold Mines in Marsabit County. Following a directive by President William Ruto, Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, Hassan Ali Joho, chaired a high-level consultative meeting on Wednesday to fast-track the resumption of mining activities in the region.
The consultation brought together senior local and national leaders, including Marsabit County Governor Mohamed Ali, Senator Mohamed Chute, and County Commissioner Stanley Kamande, alongside Members of Parliament Prof. Guyo Waqo Jaldesa (Moyale), Dido Rasso (Saku), and Wario Adhe (Laisamis).
The leaders agreed to dispatch a multi-agency team to conduct a comprehensive field review. This team is tasked with reconfirming demarcated artisanal mining zones, inspecting registered mining co-operatives prior to issuing artisanal permits, and guiding regulatory compliance under the Mining Act, 2016.
Speaking after the meeting, CS Joho also announced an immediate nationwide crackdown on illegal mining operations. Emphasizing that strict adherence to environmental and legal standards is essential for safeguarding lives, Joho issued a firm warning that those found engaging in illegal mining or contravening the law will face appropriate legal action.
Addressing another recent tragedy in Lolgorian, Narok County where five people are feared dead after a mining tunnel collapsed Joho extended his condolences to the grieving families. He assured the public that authorities are actively pursuing key leads to ensure individuals whose negligence or unlawful actions endangered lives are held fully accountable.
The Hillo Gold Mines were shut down by the government in March 2024 following deadly violent clashes and land disputes between rival groups fighting for control over the rich gold deposits. After the clashes caused multiple fatalities and injuries, the Ministry of Interior officially declared the area a dangerous and disturbed zone. The current multi-agency assessment represents the government’s first major effort to safely return artisanal livelihoods to the local community under full state regulation.
