Miners in Kwale County have been urged to exercise heightened caution as they continue their operations amid the ongoing heavy rains affecting various parts of the country. This advisory was issued by Kwale County Police Commander Joseph Nthenge, who highlighted the increased risk posed by the current weather conditions. According to Commander Nthenge, the quarries are particularly vulnerable during this period due to the saturation of the soil, which has become loose and unstable, thereby increasing the likelihood of collapses that could endanger the lives of those working in these areas.
"I cannot stop miners from going about their business during this rainy season, but I urge them to be extremely careful. I understand that by now the soil is very loose due to the heavy rains," advised the officer. His cautionary statement underscores the precarious nature of quarry work during the rainy season, where the structural integrity of the sites is compromised, posing significant risks to miners.
In addition to the risk of collapse, Commander Nthenge also raised concerns about the potential for drowning incidents. He urged miners to seal all open holes at the quarries to prevent them from filling with rainwater, which could attract community members, especially children, who might be tempted to swim in them. "We know that during this season, open holes at the quarries will be filled with rainwater. The community, especially children, might end up swimming and as a result end up drowning," he warned.
Furthermore, the police commander issued a stern warning against the involvement of minors in mining activities. He noted reports indicating that some miners have been taking children to the quarries to assist in arranging stones, a practice he condemned and insisted must cease immediately. "I have reports that some miners are taking children to the quarries to help them arrange stones. This habit should stop with immediate effect," Nthenge warned, emphasizing that those found engaging in such practices would face legal consequences.
The police commander's warnings come just two weeks after Kwale County Governor Salim Mvurya and County Commissioner Karuku Ngumo reopened the quarries following a month-long closure due to the COVID-19 outbreak. The reopening was intended to revive economic activities in the region, but the recent heavy rains have introduced new challenges that require careful management to ensure the safety and well-being of all involved.
