A cloud of grief has engulfed residents of Ogago Village in Bondo after a goldmine collapsed, leaving at least three people feared trapped underground in a tragic incident that has once again raised concerns over the safety of informal mining activities in Siaya County.
The collapse occurred at Ogago Sub-location in North Sakwa Ward, triggering panic and desperate rescue efforts as families and villagers gathered at the site hoping for positive news about the missing miners.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Siaya Senatorial aspirant CPA Zacky Masiro expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, describing the incident as heartbreaking for the affected families and the wider community.
“This tragic incident has caused pain, fear and uncertainty among the affected families and the entire community,” Masiro said, while sending condolences and prayers to those affected.
He called on emergency response teams and relevant government agencies to intensify rescue operations and ensure every possible effort is made to save the trapped miners and support affected families.
The incident has renewed scrutiny over safety standards in artisanal mining sites across western Kenya, where miners often work in hazardous conditions with minimal protective equipment and weak enforcement of safety regulations.
Masiro noted that the tragedy underscores the urgent need for stronger regulation and enhanced safety measures in mining operations to prevent further loss of life.
Residents in the area have also appealed for swift intervention from county and national authorities, warning that unregulated mining continues to expose many youths to deadly risks in the search for livelihood opportunities.
As rescue operations continue, anxiety remains high in Ogago Village, with families clinging to hope amid fears of another devastating mining disaster in the region.
Editor’s Note: the featured Image of accident in a gold mine is AI-generated
